Warner issue statement on Ed St John's shock departure

06 September 2010

Warner Music have issued the following statement in response to today's breaking story that CEO/President Ed St John was ousted from his role last Friday. It reads:

"Ed St John is stepping down as President and CEO in order to explore new opportunities outside the company.

'We thank Ed for all his hard work in helping to steer Warner Music Australia through a challenging period of transformation. He has worked with some of the biggest names in music - both Australian and International - and his knowledge and experience of the business has been a great asset. We wish him well in his future endeavours.' – Lachie Rutherford, President, Warner Music Asia Pacific."

The decision was made effective last week. In St John's absence, TMN has learned Mark Narborough, VP of Finance and Business Affairs, will lead an interim management team along with Mark Ashbridge (VP Marketing) and Billy MacLeod (VP Promotions). This team will report directly to Rutherford. Phil Howling, General Manager, Warner Music New Zealand, will report to the interim management team.

Who will be replacing St John in the long term is yet to be announced.

Read our recent Hot Seat interview with Ed St John here