After seven years of driving brand transformation and digital growth at SESAC Music Group, Samantha Saturn has stepped down from her role as Chief Marketing Officer. The departure, which came with little fanfare, marks the end of a significant chapter for both Saturn and the prominent performance rights organization, which represents major artists including Adele, Kendrick Lamar, and Bob Dylan.
During her tenure, Saturn was credited with elevating SESAC’s profile within the competitive music licensing landscape, implementing an extensive brand transformation that strengthened the company’s position in the industry. Her responsibilities encompassed leading marketing initiatives, enhancing digital growth strategies, and fostering vital relationships throughout the music business ecosystem. Saturn excelled at helping artists define clear promotional goals while navigating the increasingly complex world of music marketing and distribution.
SESAC’s official statement praised Saturn’s contributions, noting her instrumental role in driving digital expansion and deepening industry connections. The company’s leadership, including Chairman and CEO John Josephson, acknowledged her impact on SESAC’s communications strategy and increased brand visibility, developments that came during a particularly challenging period of digital disruption in the music industry.
Saturn’s leadership coincided with several significant changes in the music licensing landscape, including notable licensing disputes with platforms like YouTube that affected music availability and revenue streams for artists. Throughout these challenges, she maintained focus on innovation and strategic partnerships that supported SESAC’s portfolio of services across performing rights, music services, and audiovisual music. Her team was particularly effective at helping artists secure sync deals for lucrative placements in television, film, and commercials.
Reflecting on her time at the organization, Saturn described her SESAC experience as “one of the most rewarding” of her professional career. She expressed appreciation for the talented global team she worked alongside, noting their dedication to supporting songwriters, composers, and music publishers worldwide. In her reflective statement, Saturn emphasized her consistent commitment to driving value for creative professionals across the industry. Her departure comes as SESAC continues to strengthen its financial position, having recently completed an USD $889 million securitization that was enthusiastically received by investors.
While details about Saturn’s next moves remain undisclosed, industry insiders suggest she plans to remain within the music sector, starting a new chapter that builds upon her vast experience in music marketing and brand development.
The company has not yet announced a successor to fill her position as the organization continues its focus on steering the evolving digital music ecosystem.
