Executive Turntable: Sphere & Fender Name New Chief Communications Officers

Sphere Entertainment Co. has named Karen Laureano-Rikardsen as the company’s new global head of corporate marketing and communications. Reporting to Sphere’s president and chief operating officer, Jennifer Koester, Laureano-Rikardsen will be based in New York City.

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“As we continue to expand Sphere’s presence and bring our next-generation immersive entertainment experiences to audiences around the world, it is critical that we continue to tell our story in compelling and impactful ways,” Koester said in a statement. “Karen brings a strong combination of global marketing and communications experience, sound judgement and proven leadership in high-profile environments. She will play a vital role in shaping how we communicate our vision and innovation.”

Prior to joining the company, Laureano-Rikardsen served as chief communications and marketing officer at Cantor Fitzgerald.

Since opening its doors on Sept. 29, Sphere Las Vegas has hosted residencies from the likes of U2, Phish, Dead & Company and more. Upcoming events at the venue include Backstreet Boys, Carín León and Metallica. Sphere Entertainment plans to complete a 20,000 capacity venue in Yas Island, Abu Dhabi by the end of 2029, and has plans for a 6,000 capacity location in National Harbor, Maryland.

“Throughout my career, I have worked with global organizations to strengthen corporate reputations and develop communications strategies that drive business growth and meaningful engagement with audiences,” Laureano-Rikardsen said in a statement. “Sphere is a unique company at the intersection of technology, storytelling and live entertainment, and I look forward to working alongside the talented team of creatives, engineers, technologists and business leaders to help fuel the company’s continued expansion.” — Ariel King

Christina Stejskal (Fender)

Christina Stejskal has returned to Fender as the company’s chief communications officer. She will report to Fender’s CEO, Edward “Bud” Cole.

Stejskal previously spent almost 10 years at Fender, and led communications for products including the American Professional Series and the American Acoustasonic Telecaster. After her initial tenure at Fender, she served as senior director of global public relations at Dolby Laboratories.

“Christina understands what makes Fender unique — our history, our players and the culture that has grown around this brand for generations,” Cole, said in a statement. “She has played an important role in shaping Fender’s global story, combining strategic thinking and creativity to build meaningful connections with audiences around the world. We’re excited to welcome Christina back to the executive leadership team as we continue to grow the Fender brand and inspire musicians at every stage of their journey.”

Stejskal added, “I’m honored to return to Fender and join the executive leadership team. Few brands have shaped music and culture the way Fender has. I’m excited to help tell the stories behind our people, our products and the players who inspire us every day, while helping write this iconic company’s next chapter.” — Ariel King

Chris Palmer (Triple Tigers Records/AKANDO Music)

Triple Tigers Records/AKANDO Music has named Chris Palmer as vp of national promotion. A 28-year radio promotion veteran, Palmer fills the role vacated by Raffaella Braun following her promotion to the role of Triple Tigers Records co-president. Palmer will oversee radio promotion efforts for both Triple Tigers and AKANDO Music and will begin in the role July 27.

“Having Chris Palmer part of this ambush of tigers is so exciting. He brings the experience and creative juices, but most of all, the passion and fun we all love about this job,” Braun said in a statement.

“I can’t wait to join an already incredible team, many of whom I’ve already worked with, that are firing on all cylinders with arguably Nashville’s hottest artist roster,” Palmer added.

Palmer most recently served as vice president of promotion at The Valory Music Company, and his previous career stops include roles as vp at Warner Music Nashville, and work at Lyric Street Records. — Jessica Nicholson

Timo Hoffman (Frontiers Label Group)

Timo Hoffman has joined Frontiers Label Group as head of A&R, Germany. He previously worked at AFM Records.

“Frontiers is more than just an innovative label — it’s a place where music truly lives,” Hoffman said in a statement. “The company’s expansion into the Frontiers Label Group further broadens its spectrum of musical genres and brings with it amazing new opportunities, which I’m excited to help explore.

“What Serafino and his team have created over the past 30 years is nothing short of remarkable. Frontiers has not only become synonymous with the entire genre of melodic rock but has also successfully branched out into heavier styles over the years. Their roster, consisting of legendary bands as well as great new and upcoming acts, is brimming with quality. I have followed their evolution for a long time, always with great respect for the label’s forward-thinking approach, vision and consistency. Being invited to join this passionate team feels fantastic, and I want to thank Serafino for his trust and vision.”

Serafino Perguino, president and founder of Frontiers Label Group, added, “We are thrilled to welcome Timo to the Frontiers family. His deep knowledge of the international rock and metal landscape, combined with his proven track record in identifying and developing talent, makes him the perfect choice to lead our A&R activities in Germany.

“Germany remains one of the most important markets for our genres worldwide, and with Timo’s experience, passion and strong industry relationships, we are confident that we will further strengthen our position and continue to grow the Frontiers Label Group with outstanding artists.” — Ariel King

Lunar Vision Records Launches

Lunar Vision Entertainment announced the formation of Lunar Vision Records. Along with the label’s launch, dance music producer Amél’s “Send It To The Night” arrives as the label’s first official release. Giancarlo Cordasco, founder and CEO of Lunar Vision Entertainment, was previously head of U.S. operations and promotion at Armada Music and promotion manager at RCA Records.

“Launching Lunar Vision Records felt like the natural next step,” Cordasco said in a statement. “I’ve worked alongside artists, labels and management teams helping shape release strategy, DSP campaigns, radio promotion and artist development. Instead of simply advising from the outside, I wanted to create a label where artists could access that same expertise within a hands-on environment while still maintaining their independence. One of the most exciting parts of launching this label is being able to work with artists at pivotal moments in their careers, and Amél was the perfect artist to begin that journey with. As we continue to grow the roster, the throughline will always be great music and real artist development.” — Ariel King

Matt Ewald (Centricity Music)

Franklin, Tenn.-based label Centricity Music has promoted Matt Ewald to head of A&R. Ewald joined Centricity in 2016 and serves as VP of A&R; in his expanded role, Ewald will oversee the company’s A&R strategy, including artist discovery, signings, song selection, and long-term creative planning. Ewald will succeed the outgoing president of A&R, John Mays, and has been instrumental in the successes of Centricity artists including Katy Nichole, Brandon Heath and Chris Renzema.

“Matt has been a trusted creative voice and steady advocate for Centricity’s artists and writers,” Caren Seidle, CEO of Centricity Music, said in a statement. “He understands the heart of our mission, the importance of long-term artist development and the responsibility we carry in offering music that encourages and inspires people. His role in A&R reflects both the leadership he has already demonstrated and the vision he brings for shaping the future of our roster.”

“There was so much to learn from Matt during my decade of working alongside him,” Mays added. “How to be a better A&R person, sure, but also how to be a better man. Centricity is fortunate to move into the future with Matt heading up the A&R team and contributing more involved leadership to the company’s mission, vision and direction.” — Jessica Nicholson

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