Merlin CEO Charles Caldas Stepping Down At End of Year

Under Caldas’ leadership, Merlin has grown into an agency that represents 850 labels and indie distributors from 63 countries around the globe. During his tenure, Caldas also struck deals with such digital platforms as Spotify, YouTube, Deezer, Soundcloud, Pandora and Facebook, as well as a series of strategic non-exclusive licensing partnerships in China with NetEase Cloud Music, Ali Music Group and Tencent Music Entertainment. In the past year alone, Merlin distributed $845 million; and it has distributed over $2 billion since inception to its members.

In making the announcement of his departure, Caldas said in a statement: “Having the chance to contribute to taking Merlin from a raw idea hatched by a few indie visionaries to the fast-growing global enterprise it is today has truly been a privilege. What we have all achieved over the past 12 years is remarkable, and the revenues we are now generating were unthinkable back in 2007. This has easily been the most rewarding work of my life… [I] am confident that Merlin’s dynamic, market-leading membership of true independents face a very bright future.”

Said Merlin chairman Dave Hansen: “Over the past 12 years, Charles in his role as the CEO of Merlin changed everything for independents. His vision, leadership and hard work helped Merlin forge a path towards true independence for all of our members. Charles has built a great foundation with an amazing team and Merlin will continue to be strong in the future.”

Added Beggars Group chairman Martin Mills: “Merlin and the whole independent community owe Charles a huge debt of thanks for what he has achieved for and with us, without which we’d have a slippery slope instead of a level playing field. We wish him all the very best in his next venture, which we trust will be musical, and within our universe. Merlin will continue to go from strength to strength, thanks largely to the structure and team that Charles has put in place.”