BMG has appointed Kristal McKanders Dube to lead its global corporate communications.
McKanders Dube is an accomplished communications executive and media strategist with nearly 20 years of experience, joining BMG after nearly six years at Warner Music Group (WMG).
At WMG, Kristal McKanders Dube leads the global communications function for WMG’s publishing division, Warner Chappell Music (WCM), including overseeing executive and songwriter communications, corporate events and philanthropic efforts from WMG’s West Coast headquarters in Los Angeles.
McKanders Dube, who is based in Los Angeles, will report to BMG CEO Thomas Coesfeld. In her new role, she will be responsible for BMG’s global corporate communications, leading internal and external communications efforts and maintaining liaison with BMG parent company Bertelsmann.
According to the announcement, as WMG’s senior vice president of communications and marketing, McKanders Dube “played an important role in developing Warner Chappell’s communications strategy.”
The announcement added that her “leadership has been critical in positioning the company’s narrative during the CEO transition and recently announced the milestone of surpassing $1 billion in revenue.”
McKanders Dube also leads media relations, develops thought leadership initiatives and ensures the company’s social media presence is aligned with its overall communications goals.
Prior to joining WMG, McKanders Dube worked in consumer brand and luxury hotel public relations for IHG Hotels & Resorts, agencies MSL Group and Jackson Spalding.
She began her career as a television and radio reporter, working in the Detroit market.
In 2023, she was named a top music industry public relations executive on Billboard’s “Power of Publicity” list.
During her time at Warner Music, she served on the board of directors of the Warner Music Group/Bravatnik Family Foundation Social Justice Fund, in addition to supporting numerous corporate DEI initiatives, including the WMG HBCU Enhancement Program and the Global Black Employee Resource Group.
Photo credit: Bertelsmann/Kai-Uwe-Oesterhelweg
“Krystal’s natural storytelling abilities, combined with her expertise in corporate and music publishing communications, make her a valuable addition to our team.”
Thomas Cosfield, BMG
Thomas Coesfeld, CEO of BMG, said: “This is an exciting time for BMG. The company is uniquely positioned to grow in the fast-growing music landscape, and we are delighted that Kristal is joining us at such a critical time to contribute to our Business brings a new perspective.
“Krystal’s natural storytelling abilities, combined with her expertise in corporate and music publishing communications, make her a valuable addition to our team.”
“Sharing the unique stories and perspectives of the artists, songwriters and executives behind the music we love has always been a passion of mine.”
Krystal McCandless Dube
McKanders Dube added: “Sharing the unique stories and perspectives of the artists, songwriters and executives behind the music we love has always been a passion of mine.
“As an emerging innovator in the music industry, BMG begins a new chapter under the leadership of its new CEO, and I am eager to help develop and expand the company’s brand image while continuing to tell the extraordinary stories of the people who drive the music industry. Music Career moving forward.global music business
