CCMA Appoints New Directors Ahead of 2026 Country Music Week and Awards

In a decisive move ahead of Country Music Week 2026, the Canadian Country Music Association (CCMA) announced a refreshed board of directors in Toronto, adding four seasoned industry leaders to its 2026–2027 lineup. The appointments follow the organization’s recent Annual General Meeting and signal a strategic shift as the CCMA gears up for its flagship events, including the 2026 awards ceremony in Saskatoon.

The new board now features Damon Whiteside, Kevin “Ice” White, Chelsea O’Neill, and Katie Cheesbrough. Their combined experience spans entertainment executive management, radio promotion, live‑event programming, and sponsorship strategy—areas the CCMA intends to strengthen as it expands its digital footprint and live‑event calendar. Returning members such as Chair Jenn Dalen, Joel Baskin, Mary An Blom, and others continue to provide continuity.

Whiteside brings nearly thirty years of cross‑medium expertise, having held senior roles at The Walt Disney Company and founded Nomad Entertainment Group. His later stints as Chief Marketing Officer for the Country Music Association and CEO of the Academy of Country Music underscore his deep ties to the genre. The CCMA anticipates that Whiteside’s background in artist development and large‑scale content platforms will help the association navigate the growing importance of streaming and digital programming.

Kevin “Ice” White, currently Senior Director of National Promotion at Universal Music Canada, blends a rap‑era foundation with record‑label executive experience. His work at Virgin Music Canada and Universal has centered on radio strategy and urban marketing, suggesting the CCMA’s intent to broaden its reach across Canada’s diverse music markets.

Chelsea O’Neill, a director at Live Nation Canada, is renowned for talent procurement and event programming. She has overseen high‑profile shows such as the CFL Grey Cup halftime show and the Calgary Stampede. O’Neill’s expertise in live‑event production aligns with the CCMA’s focus on touring and festival opportunities for country artists.

Katie Cheesbrough brings nearly two decades of brand, sponsorship, and social‑impact strategy. Her work with the Canadian Olympic Foundation and various sports federations has generated over $100 million in revenue for community programs. Cheesbrough’s proficiency in sponsorship platforms is expected to bolster the CCMA’s partnerships and funding streams.

The CCMA expressed gratitude to outgoing board members Jackie Dean, Angelika Heim, Sharon Hinds, and Charlotte Thompson for their service. Their contributions helped drive the organization’s growth and the broader Canadian country music community.

According to the CCMA, the newly formed board will steer the association through its upcoming events, including Country Music Week 2026 and the 2026 CCMA Awards in Saskatoon. The organization’s website lists the full 2026–2027 board, comprising 20 members, among them the newly appointed directors and returning figures such as Chair Jenn Dalen and Vice‑Chair Julia Rambeau Smith.

This leadership reshuffle reflects the CCMA’s ongoing effort to adapt to evolving music‑industry dynamics, from increased digital distribution to live‑event innovation and expanded sponsorship opportunities. The new directors’ combined experience in entertainment, promotion, and brand strategy positions the CCMA to continue fostering Canadian country talent and expanding its national and international presence.

In short, the CCMA’s 2026–2027 board now features four new directors with extensive industry experience. The organization will use this expanded leadership to guide its activities through Country Music Week 2026 and the 2026 CCMA Awards, while maintaining its core mission of supporting Canadian country music.