Executive Action: ADA Worldwide
• ADA Worldwide, the independent label and artist services arm of Warner Music Group has appointed MaryLynne Drexler as Head of Business & Legal Affairs. It was also announced that Bryan Roberts has been named VP, A&R and Label Acquisition.
Drexler (left) joins ADA after several years with Sony Music’s The Orchard. In her new role, Drexler will help craft ADA’s global strategy while overseeing artist and distribution deals, as well as acquisitions, JVs, investments, new technologies, and strategic partnerships.
Based in New York, both Drexler and Roberts will report to ADA Worldwide’s President, Cat Kreidich, who commented, “MaryLynne has a stellar reputation. She’s exactly the type of executive you want in your corner — an expert negotiator, dealmaker, and big-picture thinker, she always puts the music and the artist first. With her at the helm, we’ll continue to craft deals that attract the brightest talent and set us and our partners up for long-term success. Our entire leadership team will benefit from her guidance. And I’m happy to welcome Bryan to the team — his relationships and unmatched creative instincts will be a game-changer. With these hires, we’re in a great position to take ADA to the next level.”
Drexler started her music industry career in 2014 in the Business & Legal Affairs department Sony Music’s RED Distribution before transitioning to The Orchard, rising to her most recent position as VP, Business & Legal Affairs for The Orchard’s Artist & Label Services division. Roberts joined ADA earlier this summer having previously held multiple roles at The Orchard, including his most recent as Sr. Director, A&R. Working closely with Kreidich and alongside the global team, Roberts will help spearhead the company’s development and growth, bringing new talent and partners into the fold.
Drexler noted, “I’ve always admired ADA’s commitment to elevating independent music, and applaud how Cat and the team have transformed the business in recent years. I’m looking forward to helping continuously evolve our offerings globally, all while staying true to our mission of supporting creatives at any stage in their career. I can’t wait to build upon this incredible momentum — the future at ADA is brighter than ever.” [Image courtesy of ADA Worldwide]
