Joel Klaiman Leaving Columbia Records

• Joel Klaiman is exiting his post as EVP/GM of Columbia Records after a six-year run. The news was initially reported by Variety and independently confirmed by RAMP. “Joel has been an integral and key part of the success of Columbia over the past 6 years,” said Rob Stringer, CEO of Sony Music. “He is a great executive and I know he will succeed in his next endeavor!”

Klaiman’s exit comes seven months after former Songs President and co-Founder Ron Perry was named Chairman & CEO of Columbia Records in January. For his part, Perry commented, “I would like to thank Joel for his contributions to the Columbia team. I wish him continued success in his next phase.”

Klaiman joined Columbia Records in 2012 — his second stint with Sony Music — transitioning from Republic Records, where he served six years as EVP of Promotion and Artist Development. Klaiman started his music career in 1990 with Frank DiLeo Management. He was later named Sr. Director of National Alternative Promotion for Elektra Entertainment before joining Epic Records in 1996 as VP of Alternative Music. Two years later Klaiman was named VP of Promotion for Sony 550 Music. Shortly thereafter he was upped to VP of Promotion for Epic Records Group and later upgraded to SVP of Promotion. In 2006, Klaiman was appointed EVP of Promotion for Epic Records.

Klaiman remarked, “I am leaving my role after an incredible six-year run at Columbia Records. I want to thank Rob Stringer for the opportunity and support. Thank you to Ron Perry. I wish continued success to him and the Columbia team. I am excited for my next chapter.”