SVP, Business & Legal Affairs

Warner Music•Los Angeles, CA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

This role provides general counseling to Warner Records on a wide range of business and legal issues. The SVP, Business & Legal Affairs will lead and oversee all business and legal aspects of the artist project process, from recording to marketing and other related activities. The position requires strategic leadership and policy guidance in a rapidly changing industry, offering opportunities for executive leadership growth within the Warner Records culture.

Requirements

J.D. from top law school.
Membership in good standing in one state bar (preferably California).
At least 12+ years of post-bar experience.
Extensive experience in a major record label business and legal affairs department, in-house legal department, law firm, or similar senior executive experience.
Outstanding negotiating, drafting, organizational, and oral and written communication skills.
Proven track record working independently within a team-oriented environment.
Consistently and effectively meet deadlines while working under pressure, managing multiple assignments at any given time, and prioritizing them effectively and appropriately.

Nice To Haves

Incredibly passionate and knowledgeable about music.
Strong business and financial knowledge.
In-depth understanding of the areas of the law applicable to the music business, including copyright, trademark, contract, rights of publicity, etc.

Responsibilities

Negotiate and draft a variety of music and entertainment-related agreements, including recording, label, license, producer, mixer, soundtrack, termination/release, and merchandise, along with related memos and summaries.
Advise and support A&R, marketing, video, commerce, promotion, royalties, international, and other departments regarding contractual and legal obligations.
Partner with A&R administration regarding clearances, budgets, approvals, and general counseling.
Collaborate with Finance to develop deal analyses.
Review and vet artwork, label copy, videos, and other assets and materials.
Provide counseling and policy guidance regarding the label’s content distribution and other business activities.
Investigate, analyze, and respond to claims and disputes, including copyright, audit, breach of contract, publicity, and trademark, and coordinate with the corporate legal department regarding dispute resolution strategies.
Lead, mentor, and manage junior attorneys, paralegals, and department staff.