Sony Music Names EVP/Philanthropy, Social Impact
• Sony Music Group has named prominent non-profit leader Towalame Austin as Executive Vice President, Philanthropy and Social Impact. In this newly-created role, the Los Angeles-based Towalame will work closely with Sony Music Group’s Corporate Communications and HR teams to advance its humanitarian efforts through impactful contributions and sustained strategic partnerships. She will work to extend philanthropic programs and activities across the company’s global network, while advising its businesses, artists and songwriters on charitable initiatives reflecting Sony Music Group’s existing commitment to corporate giving. Sony Music Group recently launched a $100 million fund to support social justice and anti-racist initiatives, in addition to participating in Sony Corporation’s $100 million fund for global COVID-19 relief. Sony Music Group also established a recurring “Giving Tuesday” campaign, which matched employee donations to hundreds of civic and charitable organizations.
Austin (left) reports jointly to Sony/ATV Chairman & CEO Jon Platt and Sony Music Entertainment Chief Operating Officer Kevin Kelleher. Kelleher stated, “It’s a pleasure to welcome Towalame to this important role at our company as we further develop our strategy in this vital area. Her extensive experience and deep understanding of companies that represent artists and the beneficial influence they can have on social causes aligns well with our growing efforts to positively impact our global society.” Platt remarked, “I have known Towalame professionally for many years, and genuinely admire what she has accomplished as a strategic advisor for non-profits. Through her work with some of the most influential leaders in music and entertainment, Towalame has helped chart a new course for creative companies to authentically give back to the communities they serve. I look forward to her guidance in expanding our impact as a socially-conscious organization.”
Ms. Austin said, “It’s an honor to join Sony Music Group and deliver on their promise to meaningfully support communities in need. I look forward to bringing my expertise to the company to help develop its philanthropic and advocacy efforts globally.”
Austin most recently served as Executive of Philanthropy for Roc Nation. While there she launched Rihanna‘s charity venture, The Clara Lionel Foundation (CLF), and the We The Best Foundation, founded by DJ Khaled, and also supported the philanthropic efforts of Big Sean, Mariah Carey, Todd Gurley and Justise Winslow. She began her career in the non-profit sector as EVP/President of the Magic Johnson Foundation, Inc.
