Hilary to Be Gone But Still Lurking

RIAA chief exec Hilary Rosen leaves office July 1, but will continue as a consultant:

Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) Chairman and CEO Hilary Rosen will be stepping down from her post effective July 1, 2003. According to RIAA President Cary Sherman, Rosen will continue with the RIAA as a consultant for one year to both the RIAA board and staff.

As President, Sherman will run the organization until a permanent replacement for Rosen is named.

RIAA President Cary Sherman stated, “Hilary has been the recording industry’s tireless advocate for countless unprecedented changes in our business. We have much to thank her for and will continue to rely on her expertise in the future.”

Rosen stated, “I am proud of the industry’s accomplishments in the last several years, particularly as it has dealt with the challenges of the digital age. I have every hope and expectation that the business plans being implemented by our member companies as well as the multiple anti-piracy strategies being employed by RIAA and the industry will bring the music business to new heights. This has been an extraordinary and wonderful experience, one that is hard to leave, but I am looking forward to spending quality time with my family. The organization could not be in better hands with Cary Sherman remaining with RIAA and handling the transition. He is absolutely first rate.”

Rosen, a 17-year veteran of the RIAA, was named CEO in 1998. Rosen has been the recording industry’s chief advocate and spokesperson during a time of unprecedented change in the music business. A permanent replacement for RIAA Chairman and CEO is currently being conducted by the executive search firm Korn/Ferry.

Rumors have placed Sonny Bono’s widow, Rep. Mary Bono as a prime candidate for the job. Rosen will be doing commentary for CNBC in addition to her consulting work.