Universal Music Group’s (UMG’s) leading merchandise and brand management company, Bravado, has announced the new leadership appointments of Alyssa Tobias, Vice President, Head of Creative Services; Bill Ashton, Head of A&R; Keith Taperell, Vice President, Global Brand Partnerships and Energy Marketing; and Kim Youngberg, Head of Legal, effective immediately.
In making this announcement Matt Young, President of Bravado, said, “As Bravado’s roster continues to expand, our company has evolved to ensure that we are giving our artists best-in-class support and services and excited to announced that Alyssa, Bill, Keith and Kim have joined our senior leadership team.”
Alyssa Tobias has been named Vice President, Head of Creative Services at Bravado. Tobias, an artist and creative director, will head up Bravado’s global creative team.
Bill Ashton has been named Head of A&R where he will focus on identifying and helping to develop emerging artists through merchandise and brand management. In this newly created role, Ashton will drive new commercial and creative opportunities for Bravado’s roster of artists and brands.
Keith Taperell has been named Vice President, Global Brand Partnerships and Energy Marketing. In this newly created role, Taperell will bring his expertise in evaluating and curating cultural moments and opportunities for Bravado’s expansive roster of artists on a global scale. Taperell will direct the execution, tone, and vision across multiple categories and touchpoints with an emphasis on global fashion, streetwear, and luxury brands.
Kim Youngberg has been named Head of Legal, a role focused on external business development while providing legal leadership for the company’s global business. Youngberg will work across artist teams, retail, e-commerce and UMG’s brands and labels.