Warner Music Group (WMG) has announced a sweeping reorganization of its Central European operations. The company is merging its Benelux businesses, including Spinnin’ Records, with those in Germany, Switzerland, and Austria (GSA) under the new Warner Music Central Europe banner. This move reflects Warner’s strategy to strengthen its influence in one of the world’s largest music markets.
New Leadership at the Helm
At the heart of this change is Niels Walboomers, who has been appointed President of Warner Music Central Europe. Walboomers, who has overseen Benelux since 2023, will now divide his time between Amsterdam, Berlin, and Hamburg. He succeeds Doreen Schimk and Fabian Drebes, who step down after four years as Co-Presidents. In their farewell, they noted, “Together, we moved the needle – from opening our creative hub in Berlin, to having the longest-running Number One in German chart history, and leading the 2024 charts with seven out of the Top 10 singles.”
Meanwhile, Warner’s publishing arm remains steady. Natascha Augustin continues as Managing Director of Warner Chappell Music Germany, reporting to Guy Moot. Markus Holzherr will remain Chief Business Officer, supporting Walboomers as he takes on this expanded role. Both will report to Simon Robson, President of EMEA, Recorded Music, who praised the transition as a way to “futureproof our European operations, opening up new pathways to global superstardom.”
Why the Market Matters
Importantly, Warner highlighted the similarities between the Benelux and GSA markets. Both regions thrive on export-oriented dance music, strong domestic hip-hop, and audiences passionate about international pop and rock. Combined, these six countries form the third-largest recorded music market in the world, behind only the United States and Japan. As a result, Warner believes the consolidation will create “bigger and more dynamic possibilities for our artists.”
In conclusion, Warner Music’s restructuring signals a forward-looking strategy. By uniting two powerful regions under one leadership team, the company is positioning itself to invest more effectively in artists and expand their global reach. With Walboomers at the helm, Warner Music Central Europe is set to become one of the company’s most influential divisions.
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