Tom Corson Named WMG COO as CFO Armin Zerza Exits
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- Tom Corson was promoted to Chief Operating Officer of Warner Music Group, stepping up from Co-Chairman and COO of Warner Records, where he has overseen operations, strategy, and commercial development since joining in 2018.
- Corson will report to WMG CEO Robert Kyncl and continue working alongside Warner Records co-chairman and CEO Aaron Bay-Schuck during a transition period, with Kyncl calling him "one of the most dynamic, respected, and effective executives in the music business."
- Corson's roster at Warner Records has spanned Madonna, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Dua Lipa, and Benson Boone, and he said he plans to "turbocharge operations" and "create even more impactful opportunities" for artists worldwide.
- Armin Zerza is stepping down as WMG's CFO and COO effective immediately for personal reasons after leading the company's worldwide financial operations since May 2025; he will assist with the transition through year's end.
- Zerza had succeeded Bryan Castellani, who departed WMG after less than two years in the CFO role, making him the second WMG CFO to exit in roughly two years.
- Lou Dickler, WMG's SVP, Global Controller and Chief Accounting Officer, will serve as acting CFO while the company searches for Zerza's permanent replacement.
Why it matters: The promotion consolidates operational leadership under Corson across WMG's labels just as the company loses its second CFO in two years. The transition is happening mid-search for a new finance chief, leaving day-to-day financial oversight in the hands of controller Lou Dickler while Kyncl reshapes his executive bench.
