WARNER MUSIC GROUP APPOINTS ARMIN ZERZA AS EVP & CFO EFFECTIVE MAY 5

Rhea-AI Summary

Warner Music Group (WMG) has appointed Armin Zerza as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, effective May 5, reporting to CEO Robert Kyncl. Zerza joins from Activision Blizzard, where he served as CFO and Chief Commercial Officer, playing a key role in Microsoft's acquisition of the company.

With 30 years of experience across entertainment, technology, and consumer goods industries, Zerza previously spent over 20 years at Procter & Gamble in various senior leadership roles. He held CFO positions for multibillion-dollar businesses including P&G's European Baby Care and Latin America divisions.

Current EVP & CFO Bryan Castellani will serve until May 5 and then transition to an advisory role to ensure a smooth handover. Zerza holds a Master's Degree in Economics and Commerce from Vienna University of Economics and Business.

Positive

• Appointment of experienced CFO with strong track record in entertainment and technology sectors
• New CFO brings expertise in managing complex global operations and M&A
• Structured transition period with current CFO staying as advisor ensures continuity

Negative

• None.

Accomplished Leader from Activision Blizzard and Procter & Gamble

NEW YORK, April 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Warner Music Group Corp. (Nasdaq: WMG) today announced that Armin Zerza is joining the company as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, effective May 5, reporting to CEO Robert Kyncl. Zerza brings extensive global financial, commercial, and operational leadership experience, most recently serving as CFO of Activision Blizzard, while it was traded on the NASDAQ stock exchange. At the same time, it was announced that current EVP & CFO Bryan Castellani will serve until May 5, and then act as advisor to ensure a smooth handover.

Zerza comes to WMG with three decades of experience across the entertainment, technology, and consumer goods industries. During his time at Activision Blizzard, he served as CFO, Chief Commercial Officer, and played a pivotal role in the company's acquisition by Microsoft. At Activision Blizzard, Zerza played a crucial role in shaping and executing strategies that supported significant growth and value creation. His proven track record in driving sustainable financial performance, along with deep expertise in managing complex global operations, positions him perfectly to contribute to continued success at WMG.

Kyncl said: "Armin arrives with 30 years of global experience and a track record of delivering outstanding results through operational excellence, commercial innovation, and financial discipline. He'll help us evolve our long-term strategy and build WMG for the lasting benefit of our artists, songwriters, investors, employees, and partners."

Kyncl added: "I'd also like to thank Bryan for his invaluable contributions to WMG. He's been a great partner and exemplary team player during many important moves, positioning the company for sustained success. All of us wish him the best in his next chapter."

Zerza said, "I am thrilled to join WMG, a dynamic and innovative leader in the music industry. I believe the business has tremendous potential and look forward to working closely with Robert and the talented team at WMG to help deliver its ambitious vision for innovation, growth, and long-term value creation."

Castellani said "It's been a rewarding experience to contribute to the ongoing evolution of this great company. There's so much we achieved at a pivotal time for the industry. I thank Robert, the Board of Directors, and everyone at WMG, especially the global finance team."

Zerza joined Activision Blizzard in August 2015 following more than 20 years of senior leadership experience at Procter & Gamble, serving in North America, Europe, and Latin America. He held a number of CFO roles across P&G, including on multibillion-dollar businesses such as its European Baby Care and Latin America divisions as well as the company's global M&A team. Zerza holds a Master's Degree in Economics and Commerce from Vienna University of Economics and Business.

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About Warner Music Group
Warner Music Group (WMG) brings together artists, songwriters, entrepreneurs, and technology that are moving entertainment culture across the globe. Operating in more than 70 countries through a network of affiliates and licensees, WMG's Recorded Music division includes renowned labels such as 10K Projects, 300 Entertainment, Asylum, Atlantic, Big Beat, EastWest, Elektra, Erato, First Night, Fueled By Ramen, Nonesuch, Parlophone, Reprise, Rhino, Roadrunner, Sire, Spinnin', Warner Records, Warner Classics, and Warner Music Nashville. WMG's music publishing arm, Warner Chappell Music, has a catalog of over one million copyrights spanning every musical genre, from the standards of the Great American Songbook to the biggest hits of the 21st century. Warner Music Group is also home to ADA, which supports the independent community, as well as artist services division WMX. Follow WMG on Instagram, X, TikTok, LinkedIn, and Facebook.

Media Contact
James Steven
James.Steven@wmg.com

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SOURCE Warner Music Group Corp.

FAQ

When will Armin Zerza start as WMG's new CFO?

Armin Zerza will begin his role as Executive Vice President and CFO at Warner Music Group on May 5, 2025.

What was Armin Zerza's previous position before joining WMG?

Zerza served as CFO and Chief Commercial Officer at Activision Blizzard, where he was involved in the company's acquisition by Microsoft.

What is happening to WMG's current CFO Bryan Castellani?

Bryan Castellani will serve until May 5, 2025, and then transition to an advisory role to ensure a smooth handover with the incoming CFO.

What is Armin Zerza's professional background before Activision Blizzard?

Zerza spent over 20 years at Procter & Gamble in senior leadership roles, including CFO positions for European Baby Care and Latin America divisions.