Warner Music UK COO Isabel Garvey Exits

Garvey informed staff of her decision via an internal memo on Wednesday, October 8. The move follows the news that Tony Harlow is leaving his post as CEO of WMUK at the end of October, prompting a strategic overhaul. The restructuring sees the company’s flagship labels, Atlantic UK and Warner Records UK, align more closely with their US counterparts, with UK label heads now reporting directly to US leadership.

Garvey explained that without a dedicated COO role under the new structure, the central support functions she oversaw will be led directly by Simon Robson, President, EMEA, Recorded Music, WMG. This change, she noted, is intended to make the new organizational structure simpler and ensure lines of accountability are clear.

Garvey joined WMUK as COO in 2023, having previously served as Managing Director of the legendary Abbey Road Studios since 2014. Her tenure at WMUK, though relatively brief, coincided with a period of significant achievement. Robson praised her contribution in a separate note, saying, “Isabel shaped our approach and culture at a time of seismic change in the industry, and Warner Music has benefited enormously from her strategic thinking and fresh perspective.”

Garvey’s legacy includes driving “historic results” for WMUK, notably achieving a 70% share of the Top 10 singles chart earlier this year with releases from successful artists such as Ed Sheeran, Charli xcx, and Benson Boone. She also noted the strategic renewal of Rhino UK, WMUK’s catalog division, which is now positioned for future growth by connecting with younger audiences.

Expressing excitement about her next chapter, Garvey confirmed she remains passionate about working “at the intersection of creativity and commerce,” where she believes the most impactful innovation occurs.