Warner Chappell Music UK has appointed Annie Christensen as its Vice President, Catalogue.
Christensen joins the publishing arm of Warner Music Group from a two-decade career in A&R, and will report to WCM UK President Shani Gonzales.
The appointment, announced on Thursday (September 10), will see Christensen lead WCM UK’s catalog acquisition and rights management strategy, sourcing new business and maximizing the commercial and cultural value of the company’s song portfolio.
She will focus on identifying music assets, building relationships with songwriters, estates, and rightsholders, and delivering catalog initiatives alongside the A&R, Creative, Sync, and Business Affairs teams.
The position sits within WCM UK‘s catalog operation, distinct from its frontline A&R signings.
“Warner Chappell Music holds one of the most storied songbooks in music history, so it’ll be a huge privilege to help lead the strategy that connects these classic songs to brand new audiences.”
Annie Christensen, WCM UK
Christensen spent 20 years at Island Records, joining as a work experience placement and marketing intern before rising from A&R Assistant to co-Head of A&R.
During that time she worked across acts including Busted, The Feeling, The Fratellis, Keane, and McFly.
She signed and developed Ben Howard, FLO, Hozier, Mumford & Sons, and Sigrid.
Since 2023, Christensen has worked as a freelance A&R consultant, collaborating with labels across Universal Music Group – the parent of Island Records – as well as independents and a number of management companies.
Her recent projects include Self Esteem‘s A Complicated Woman, Cian Ducrot‘s Little Dreaming, Girli‘s it’s just my opinion, and Luna‘s Fairy Pop.
She is currently working with ABBA‘s Björn Ulvaeus on a new project.
“Warner Chappell Music holds one of the most storied songbooks in music history, so it’ll be a huge privilege to help lead the strategy that connects these classic songs to brand new audiences,” said Annie Christensen. “Having spent my career on the frontlines of A&R, I’ve gained a unique perspective on what truly resonates with fans.
“I’m excited to apply that creative lens to championing timeless songs and driving new catalog opportunities.”
“[Christensen] has a fantastic track record in identifying culture-shifting talent and will unlock fresh and exciting opportunities for our incredible heritage.”
Shani Gonzales, WCM UK
Said Shani Gonzales: “As we continue to expand our catalog footprint, Annie’s deep creative instincts, strategic foresight, and understanding of the global market will be invaluable.
“She has a fantastic track record in identifying culture-shifting talent and will unlock fresh and exciting opportunities for our incredible heritage.”
The appointment follows a run of senior hires and promotions at Warner Chappell.
The publisher promoted Gabz Landman to Executive Vice President, A&R, in August.
It promoted David Goldsen to Executive Vice President, A&R in July, and named Soraib el Jelali as Head of A&R, Benelux and Julian Franzoni as General Manager for Argentina and Uruguay in June.
The appointment also comes amid a run of new publishing deals.
This month, Warner Chappell struck a global deal with France’s Kidding Aside, as the electronic music indie launched a publishing venture with Nicolas Klersy as Partner.
The publisher also signed Grammy winner Claudia Brant to a global publishing deal in April.Music Business Worldwide
