NASHVILLE, TN (CelebrityAccess) -– The Academy of Country Music announced that Damon Whiteside has been appointed to the role of Chief Executive Officer of the music trade association.
When Whiteside takes up his official duties at the ACM on January 6th, he will become just the third CEO in the Academy’s 55-year history. While he oversees the academy, he will divide his time between Nashville, and Los Angeles.
“I am honored and humbled to now be given the responsibility to shape the future of the Academy. I am excited to draw upon my deep passion, unique experience and important relationships across the Country Music and mainstream entertainment media industries to reinforce the organization’s mission, rejuvenate its influence, and redefine its purpose to benefit the entire Country Music ecosystem,” Whiteside said in a press statement announcing his new gig.
“I am extremely proud of the monumental accomplishments that our dedicated team at CMA has been able to achieve these last six years thanks to the support and guidance of the CMA Board and Sarah Trahern,” Whiteside added. “It has been an honor to help shape the successes of this rich genre, and to be part of a respected organization like CMA and its mission to grow Country Music globally while shaping positive perceptions about the industry and its artists.”
Prior to his new role at the Academy, Whiteside most recently served at the CMA for six years, beginning as Senior Vice President of Marketing and Strategic Partnerships before he was elevated to his current role of Chief Marketing Officer.
While at CMA, he oversaw marketing campaigns for their three annual television properties and strengthening the partnership with CMA’s exclusive broadcast partner ABC Television Network and The Walt Disney Company.
During his tenure, he served as lead country strategist for the release of the Ken Burns Country Music documentary, (which you really should watch if you have not) and the launch of CMA Brand Marketing Summits in New York, Toronto, and London. He also oversaw a 40% increase in annual sponsorship revenue and the re-branding of the CMA Music Festival and Fan Fair X.
Prior to his stint with CMA, he founded the Los Angeles-based Nomad Entertainment, where he represented music artists, producers and songwriters, and developed marketing and digital campaigns, brand strategy, and partnerships for entertainment brand clients.
Whiteside’s professional affiliations have included Leadership Music, NARAS, Music Business Association, Digital LA, CMO Club, LA Office, American Marketing Association and Promotion Marketing Association. His current Board positions include the Nashville Entrepreneur Center, Nashville Cares and the TJ Martell Foundation. In 2013 he completed the Executive Program at the renowned UCLA Anderson School of Management.
