Sarah Trahern, CEO of the Nation Music Affiliation (CMA), has introduced that she’s going to retire on the finish of 2026, bringing to an in depth a 12-year tenure main one of the influential commerce organizations within the US music {industry}.
She is going to work with CMA’s board and senior management in the course of the transition interval. CMA’s Board of Administrators has shaped a search committee and appointed government search agency Buffkin Baker to guide the method of figuring out Trahern’s successor. Additional particulars on the search are anticipated to be introduced in February.
Throughout her time within the position, the group superior its mission to intensify the notice of Nation Music and help its ongoing development, each domestically and internationally.
Below her management, CMA has deepened its dedication to its members – artists, songwriters, touring personnel, and all professionals throughout the artistic and enterprise sectors – guaranteeing the affiliation stays grounded in service to the individuals who energy Nation Music.
“After a lot reflection, I’ve made the choice to retire and embrace this subsequent chapter of life – one that enables me to stay linked to this {industry} in ways in which proceed to encourage me, whereas additionally creating house for the individuals and moments that matter most to me.”
Sarah Trahern, CEO of the Nation Music Affiliation
CMA’s main tv and live-event properties, together with the CMA Awards, CMA Fest, and CMA Nation Christmas, continued to function as core drivers of visibility for the style throughout Trahern’s tenure. The occasions are broadcast on ABC and kind a central a part of CMA’s business and cultural footprint.
In an announcement, Trahern stated: “Main the Nation Music Affiliation has been the privilege of my profession. I’m extremely pleased with what we’ve completed collectively in service of this {industry} and its individuals, and deeply grateful for the neighborhood that makes Nation Music what it’s. After a lot reflection, I’ve made the choice to retire and embrace this subsequent chapter of life – one that enables me to stay linked to this {industry} in ways in which proceed to encourage me, whereas additionally creating house for the individuals and moments that matter most to me, together with time with my husband, Wayne, getting outside, and easy nights at dwelling with our canine, Riley.”
“Her affect has formed not solely CMA however the way forward for Nation Music itself.”
Jay Williams, Co-Head and Companion at WME and Chair of CMA’s Board
Throughout Trahern’s management, CMA elevated its funding in industry-facing packages, together with initiatives responding to COVID-19-related disruption, pure disasters, and psychological well being challenges throughout the music workforce.
On the similar time, CMA has strengthened its world engagement, with Trahern guiding efforts to deepen connections in key worldwide markets and elevate Nation Music’s presence worldwide.
Trahern additionally serves as President of the CMA Basis, the group’s philanthropic arm targeted on music schooling. In line with CMA, the muse has invested greater than $30 million in music schooling initiatives to this point, supported partly by proceeds from CMA Fest.
Previous to becoming a member of CMA, Trahern held senior roles throughout tv and media, together with positions at C-SPAN, The Nashville Community (TNN), and as Common Supervisor of Nice American Nation (GAC).
Her {industry} recognition consists of being named Billboard’s Nation Energy Gamers Government of the Yr in 2017 and receiving the Bob Kingsley Residing Legend Award from the Grand Ole Opry in 2024.
Jay Williams, Co-Head and Companion at WME and Chair of CMA’s Board, stated Trahern’s management had left “an indelible mark” on each the group and the broader nation music {industry}.
“Whereas we are going to deeply miss Sarah’s management, we’re excited to hold ahead the legacy she has established. Sarah leaves behind an indelible mark on each the Nation Music Affiliation and the broader {industry}. Her affect has formed not solely CMA however the way forward for Nation Music itself.”Music Enterprise Worldwide
