Warner Records appoints Jim Roppo as senior executive amid leadership reshuffle

Jim Roppo, former Republic Records chief, will take a senior post at Warner Records, reporting to Aaron Bay‑Schuck.

By Felo News Desk · Published Wed, 14 Oct 2026 19:24:24 GMT

Jim Roppo, who recently exited Republic Records, has been named to a senior position at Warner Records Group, according to Variety and Billboard.

What happened

Variety reported that Warner Records announced Roppo’s appointment as vice chairman, with his start date to be confirmed in the coming weeks. Billboard said he will assume the role of chief operating officer, a position previously held by Tom Corson. Both outlets note that Roppo will report directly to Warner Records chairman and CEO Aaron Bay‑Schuck and will be based in Los Angeles.

What the reports add

Variety highlighted Roppo’s three‑decade career at Universal Music Group, most recently as chairman and CEO of Republic Records, and quoted Bay‑Schuck praising Roppo’s breadth across digital, commerce and marketing. Billboard provided a detailed career timeline, noting Roppo’s moves from Island Def Jam to Republic in 2012, his promotion to co‑president in 2021, and his elevation to chairman/CEO of Republic before the Warner move. Billboard also mentioned that Warner Records did not comment on the appointment.

What was said

Aaron Bay‑Schuck told Variety, “Everything we do is rooted in artist development, and Jim has spent his career ensuring that creatives have the tools, resources, and support to reach their full potential.” Roppo said to Variety, “I’m excited to join Warner Records at such an important moment, with undeniable momentum across the roster. My focus has always been on backing great music and helping teams win.”

How it came about

Roppo’s move follows a long tenure at Universal Music Group, where he oversaw strategy, operations and artist development for Republic Records and its umbrella group Republic Collective. His departure from Republic was announced hours before Warner Records disclosed the new appointment. The shift occurs as Warner Records continues to restructure its leadership after the recent Warner Bros. Discovery‑Skydance merger, which was covered by Felo News in earlier reports on the rebranding of Warner assets.

Key facts

Jim Roppo has been appointed to a senior role at Warner Records Group. (variety.com)
Variety says the title is vice chairman; Billboard says the title is chief operating officer. (billboard.com)
Roppo will report to Warner Records chairman and CEO Aaron Bay‑Schuck and be based in Los Angeles. (variety.com)