A2IM Reups CEO Burgess, Adds General Manager, Promotes Four

The American Association of Independent Music (A2IM) has renewed the contract of its respected leader Dr. Richard James Burgess, who will now serve as both President and CEO of the organization. The indie trade group has also hired a new General Manager and promoted four from within.

Under Burgess's leadership A2IM revenues have doubled and membership increased by nearly 70%. He and his team have grown A2IM’s influence within the broader entertainment industry, including as an advocate for gender equality and equal pay.

“Since having the good fortune to be appointed CEO of A2IM three years ago, I have been blessed with enthusiastic and talented team members along with a highly participatory and knowledgeable board ,” says Burgess.

The indie music advocacy group also added Andrea Pagnanelli as General Manager. Named one of Forbes’ 30 under 30 and New York Business Journal’s Woman of Influence, Pagnanelli recently served as EVP of Venue and Event Strategy for the Los Angeles Football Club, and has held roles at Relevent Sports, the Phoenix Suns and the NFL. She also founded LeapSeats, an in-venue seat upgrade app, that allowed fans to upgrade their seats.

Four A2IM staffers received promotions:

Patrick Ferrell has been promoted to Head of Label Relations from his previous position as Director, Member Services. Patrick joined the A2IM team in April of 2016.

• Lisa Hresko has been promoted to Senior Director, Associate Member Services and International Relations from her previous role as Senior Manager, Member Services.
• Sheryl Cohen has been promoted to Senior Director, Culture & Oversight from her previous role as Director, Culture and Oversight. Sheryl has been with A2IM since March of 2016.
• Courtnay Newman has been promoted to Manager, Member Services and Partnerships from her previous role as Coordinator, Member Services.