Jeff Toig Named CEO as Global Music Rights Signals Continuity in Leadership and Vision

Global Music Rights (GMR), the US-headquartered performing rights organization valued at $3.3 billion, has announced a major leadership transition that underscores stability at the top. As of January 16, 2026, Jeff Toig has been appointed Chief Executive Officer, while GMR co-founder Randy Grimmett moves into the role of Executive Chairman. The shift reflects a carefully planned evolution rather than a change in direction, reinforcing the company’s long-term, songwriter-first strategy.

A Leadership Transition Built on Long-Standing Collaboration

Toig’s promotion comes after more than eight years at GMR, where he has served as Chief Business Officer since 2018, overseeing revenue and licensing operations. GMR was founded in 2013 by Grimmett and influential music executive Irving Azoff, and has since built a reputation for advocating transparency and strong royalty outcomes for creators.

Azoff emphasized the continuity behind the move, noting that “Randy and Jeff have been working side by side for a long time, building GMR into what it is today,” and describing the leadership change as “a natural evolution” that will allow GMR to continue setting industry standards for excellence and transparency.

Following a Major Investment and Industry Growth

The announcement follows a major milestone for the organization: just over a year ago, GMR secured an investment from private equity firm Hellman & Friedman that valued the company at $3.3 billion. That deal positioned GMR as one of the most valuable entities in the global music rights ecosystem, at a time when songwriter compensation and licensing models are under increasing scrutiny.

In his new role as Executive Chairman, Grimmett will remain deeply involved in shaping long-term strategy while continuing to work closely with the company’s songwriter and publisher community. He said the shift will allow him to focus on future growth while maintaining GMR’s commitment to its creative partners.

Serving a Roster of Global Superstars

GMR represents an elite group of artists and estates, including Harry Styles, Drake, Pearl Jam, Billie Eilish, the Eagles, and the estates of John Lennon, Prince, and George Harrison. Styles, who recently announced his upcoming album Kiss All The Time. Disco, Occasionally, due March 6 via Columbia Records, is among the high-profile songwriters whose catalogs are administered by the organization.

Toig has stressed that GMR’s client-led approach “remains unchanged” and continues to be the hallmark of the company’s operating philosophy, adding that he is honored to lead the business into its next chapter alongside its world-class clients and partners.

What This Means for GMR’s Future

Ultimately, the leadership transition signals that GMR is reinforcing its existing vision rather than redefining it. With Toig stepping into day-to-day leadership and Grimmett guiding long-term strategy, the company is positioning itself for continued growth while maintaining its focus on transparency, strong partnerships, and advocacy for songwriters in an evolving music publishing landscape.