Whiteside Stepping Down As ACM CEO
• The Academy of Country Music (ACM) announced that CEO Damon Whiteside plans to depart in June 2026 after six-and-a-half years of service.
During his tenure, Whiteside increased ACM membership to the largest and most diverse in its history and strengthened the organization’s profitability, with 2025 profits increasing 150% and 2026 profits projected to grow another 140%. The Academy also relocated from Los Angeles to Nashville in 2022, bringing the organization to the center of the Country Music community.
In addition to serving as CEO of the ACM, Whiteside also executive produced ACM Honors, ACM Our Country, and ACM Awards, which he repositioned into a streaming-first event via a global streaming partnership with Amazon Prime Video that is now in place through 2028.
Through ACM Lifting Lives, the organization’s philanthropic partner, Whiteside helped harness the strength of the Country Music community to support industry members in need by raising and distributing over $4 Million via a Covid Response Fund and generating over $1.3 Million in annual fundraising over the past year through new events and partnerships.
“Damon’s forward-thinking vision and leadership not only strengthened ACM’s connection to the Country Music community and industry, but also allowed us to attract new audiences around the world,” said Cris Lacy, Chair, ACM Board of Directors. “The ACM Board is beyond thankful for his partnership, dedication, and passion which have set the organization up for continued success and impact well into the future.”
“I’m proud of everything we have accomplished together in my time at the Academy of Country Music,” Whiteside said. “I’m thankful for the amazing team that I have mentored and learned from, our many strategic partners that have helped us continue to innovate, as well as the ACM and ACM Lifting Lives Boards for their leadership that will guide the Academy into its bright future. I believe that I am leaving ACM in a better place with stability and security that will allow the organization to continue to grow and reach new heights. I’m excited for my next act as I explore my passions and continue to learn and create impact in the entertainment industry.”
Whiteside will remain as CEO through June 30, 2026 and will then continue serving as the CEO Emeritus for the remainder of 2026, working towards a smooth transition following his departure. ACM’s Board of Directors has formed a search committee to identify Whiteside’s successor. [Photo Credit: Katie Kauss]
