Universal Music Group appoints James Steven as EVP & Chief Communications Officer

07 January 2026 - Press release

 

Universal Music Group (UMG), the world leader in music-based entertainment, today announced the appointment of James Steven as its Executive Vice President & Chief Communications Officer. Steven will be responsible for leading the company’s internal and external communications, and oversee the communications functions of UMG's operating companies worldwide. Effective January 26, he will be based in New York and report to UMG’s Chief Administrative Officer, Will Tanous.

Tanous said: “I know first-hand the extraordinary skill and dedication James brings to strategic communications and storytelling.  His love of music and his broad experience across media and technology makes him an ideal fit for UMG as we enter the next phase of growth, driven by strategic initiatives that will unlock new opportunities for artists, songwriters, and fans alike.”

UMG Chairman and CEO Sir Lucian Grainge said: “We welcome James to UMG and look forward to his contributions. Given Will’s broadened role, it was important that we brought in a communications executive with experience and perspective -one who was able to step right in to help us continue to shape the future of music.

Steven joins from Warner Music Group, where he served as Chief Communications Officer for the past 10 years. During his tenure as an Executive Officer at WMG, he helped guide the company through a transformative period, including the 2020 IPO and a CEO transition in 2022. In addition to his role at WMG, he is currently a board member of the Recording Industry Association of America. 

Prior to WMG, Steven held senior roles at various PR firms, working with clients in the technology, entertainment, automobile, and food industries. Having joined Warner Music Group in London in 2007, he relocated to New York in 2012, rising to Senior Vice President, Communications & Marketing, and then to his current role in 2015.