Today, ADA Worldwide, the independent label and artist services arm of Warner Music Group (Nasdaq: WMG), announced MaryLynne Drexler has been appointed Head of Business & Legal Affairs for the company. Drexler comes to 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. At the same time, it was announced Bryan Roberts has been named VP, A&R and Label Acquisition for the company. Based in New York, both Drexler and Roberts will report to ADA Worldwide’s President, Cat Kreidich.
Kreidich said: “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 gamechanger. With these hires, we’re in a great position to take ADA to the next level.”
Drexler added: “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.”
Drexler started her career in the music industry in 2014 at Sony Music’s RED Distribution in the Business & Legal Affairs department before transitioning to The Orchard. She rose the ranks, serving most recently as VP, Business & Legal Affairs for The Orchard’s Artist & Label Services division. Drexler holds a J.D. from Northeastern University School of Law and an MA in English from the University of Massachusetts.
Roberts joined the company earlier this summer having previously held multiple roles at Sony Music’s The Orchard including his most recent, Senior 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.
