CAA Executive Search Expands Music-Industry Talent Pipeline Amid Growing Private-Equity Interest

In a late‑April interview held in CAA’s New York office, executives Joe Becher and Andrew Mackereth revealed how the agency’s Executive Search division is reshaping the music‑industry talent landscape amid a surge of private‑equity interest.

Founded in October 2016 by global managing partner Joe Becher, the division now carries out roughly 100 searches for music‑industry clients each year—a sizable chunk of its total 550 annual placements. Clients range from the giants Universal Music Group and Pophouse Entertainment to a spectrum of live‑music venues, streaming platforms, distribution firms, and music‑technology start‑ups.

Becher and Mackereth credit CAA’s “connectivity of CAA’s platform” and its deep entertainment expertise as key assets in sourcing the right leaders. The firm’s reputation for understanding the nuances of the music business gives it a competitive edge over traditional executive‑search firms.

Private‑equity and venture‑capital interest in music has intensified, and CAA Executive Search positions itself as a bridge between investors and the talent that can steer music‑focused companies. Mackereth noted that the agency “has been a window for private‑equity firms to look into the music industry and identify the right people to help them run their companies.” Often, the search begins before an investment, with PE clients asking CAA to evaluate the leadership potential of an asset they are considering acquiring.

The hiring process is rigorous. Mackereth described a sequence that includes site visits, hour‑long phone calls, and additional stakeholder interviews, sometimes spanning several hours. Becher added that psychometric tools and online assessments help the firm gauge a candidate’s strengths and fit, though these instruments are not the sole basis for hiring decisions.

Beyond placement, CAA offers advisory services. Becher explained that the agency advises clients on “how good the talent of the asset is and where they need to improve it.” This includes succession planning and talent development—areas that are often under‑reported in the music industry. Mackereth highlighted that major labels and streaming platforms such as Spotify and Apple Music have “very successful transitions” and that internal leadership teams are typically prepared to step into new roles.

The interview also touched on industry‑specific hiring challenges. Becher said that the music sector can be “insular” and that relationships are critical. He emphasized that while functions like finance or data analytics can be filled by talent from outside the music world, roles that require A&R experience or deep industry knowledge must come from within. Mackereth cited examples of music‑technology companies hiring product executives from other sectors, while A&R roles remain music‑centric.

Gender representation remains a concern. Mackereth acknowledged that “there’s work to be done” but noted that the firm is engaging with more women in senior positions. He referenced Merlin’s initiative to support female leaders, illustrating a broader industry push toward diversity.

The firm’s culture of networking extends beyond formal interviews. Becher mentioned that CAA facilitates introductions and informal gatherings—ski trips, golf outings, and even walks along the Thames—to foster relationships between executives and investors.

A recurring theme in the conversation was the importance of punctuality and preparation. Becher listed punctuality as the top “pet peeve,” arguing that lateness signals a lack of professionalism that could harm client relationships.

In sum, CAA Executive Search has carved out a niche in the music industry by combining deep entertainment knowledge with a structured executive‑search methodology. Its services are increasingly sought after as private‑equity and venture‑capital firms look to acquire or invest in music‑related assets, and as the sector embraces technology‑driven roles. The firm’s ongoing work in talent placement, advisory, and succession planning positions it as a key facilitator in the evolving music‑business ecosystem.