Universal Music Group’s Bravado Announces New Leadership Appointments Universal Music Group’s merchandise and brand management company, Bravado, has announced new leadership appointments across all departments. This strategic move aims to enhance support for Bravado’s roster of artists and brands, continuing to drive the company’s growth.
In 2023, Universal’s ‘Merchandising and Other’ revenue segment saw a significant increase, growing 17.9% year-over-year to €706 million ($763.397 million). This new leadership structure is poised to further capitalize on this momentum.
Key appointments include Colin McIntosh as Chief Financial Officer and Ashley Fogerty’s promotion to oversee Business Affairs. Bill Ashton has been promoted to Senior Vice President of Commerce, while Brian Schechter now heads Brand Management. Keith Taperell will oversee licensing, and Stacie Swanson steps into the newly created role of Vice President, Artist Strategy.
Bravado’s Global President, Matt Young, expressed excitement about the new leadership: “Helping artists connect with fans around the world will always be our driving force, and I’m excited to announce this new leadership, who will ensure that artists’ visions are brought to life.”
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Detailed Leadership Roles
Alyssa Tobias has been promoted to Senior Vice President, Head of Creative Services. Previously, she was VP, Head of Creative Services, and before joining Bravado, she served as SVP, Creative at Live Nation Merchandise. Tobias is based in Los Angeles.
Ashley Fogerty steps up as Senior Vice President of Business Affairs, focusing on external business development and providing legal leadership for Bravado’s global operations. Fogerty, who joined from Epic Rights in 2016, is based in Los Angeles.
Bill Ashton, now Senior Vice President of Commerce, will drive revenue and innovation across tours, retail, VIP, licensing, D2C, and Harley-Davidson. Ashton continues to oversee A&R and is based in New York.
Brian Schechter has been promoted to Senior Vice President, Head of Brand Management, leading the brand management team and supporting artist teams. Schechter, formerly Vice President, Label Liaison, is based in Los Angeles.
Colin McIntosh joins as Chief Financial Officer, coming from REVOLT Media where he was COO and CFO. McIntosh is based in New York.
David Boyne remains Managing Director of Bravado UK, where he has been instrumental in growing the company’s UK presence, including launching the Rolling Stones’ RS No. 9 Carnaby store.
Stacie Swanson, promoted to Vice President of Artist Strategy, will focus on maximizing commercial and creative opportunities for a select list of artists, including Tupac and Morgan Wallen. Swanson is based in Nashville.
Rachel Redfearn continues to lead the UK’s A&R and brand management and label liaison teams as Senior Vice President UK A&R, Brand Management & Label Liaison. Redfearn, previously with The Merchandise Company, is based in London.
Supporting Roles
Reporting to Bill Ashton:
- Briana Farrell is promoted to Vice President of US Retail, having joined Bravado in 2011. Farrell is based in New York.
- Keith Taperell becomes Vice President of Licensing, previously serving as VP of Global Brand Partnerships and Energy Marketing. Taperell is based in London.
This new leadership team is set to drive Bravado’s continued growth, ensuring innovative and impactful experiences for artists and fans alike.
