Cat Kreidich Steps Down as President of Warner Music’s ADA, Championing Indie Artist Value
After four years of transformative leadership, Cat Kreidich is departing her role as president of ADA, Warner Music Group’s distribution company, the company announced on Tuesday. Her tenure was marked by a strategic focus on bolstering the independent music ecosystem and expanding ADA’s global footprint.
Kreidich secured key partnerships with labels like Three Six Zero and Rostrum, and forged groundbreaking distribution deals with artists including Paris Hilton, Banks, Kesha, and Flume. She also oversaw significant international expansion, establishing a presence in Brazil through Sua Musica, the Middle East via Qanawat and Rotana, and Africa with Africori. Notably, Kreidich cultivated a team comprised largely of women, reflecting a commitment to diversity within the industry. In 2023, she was recognized as an honoree at Variety’s Power of Women New York celebration.
Prior to her recent role, Kreidich held senior positions at Sony Music’s catalog division and The Orchard, as well as roles at Ultra Records, EMI Music, and within Warner Music Group’s marketing division, demonstrating a long-standing career dedicated to the evolution of music distribution.
In a message to the ADA team, Kreidich stated, “After four transformative years proving that Warner Music Group and ADA can truly be the best home for independent artists and labels, I have made the decision to leave the company.” She expressed confidence that the foundation built during her leadership would continue to effectively serve independent artists.
Kreidich highlighted the team’s accomplishments, including the revitalization of ADA’s brand identity and the development of a digital platform tailored to the needs of independent artists and labels. She also pointed to the strategic acquisition of RSDL, which Warner Music Group intends to leverage across its entire recorded music business.
Reflecting on her career, Kreidich noted her initial involvement with ADA during the early days of digital transformation in the 2000s, when the company was a pioneer in supporting emerging independent acts. “When I returned four years ago…I brought a vision to recapture that pioneering spirit,” she explained. “We didn’t aspire to be the biggest distribution company, but rather the most valuable—valuable to our artist and label partners.”
She extended her gratitude to the independent labels and artists, acknowledging their “dedication, creativity, and passion,” and affirming her continued commitment to championing the independent music community. While Kreidich did not disclose her future plans, she indicated they would align with her two-decade-long advocacy for independent music.
Warner Music Group CEO Robert Kyncl echoed these sentiments in a separate message to staff, describing Kreidich as “a class act” and “a bold thinker.” He acknowledged her leadership in navigating industry shifts and delivering results, and assured the team that an update on ADA leadership would be forthcoming this week. “A huge thank you to Cat for helping set us up for success,” Kyncl stated. “We wish her all the best.”
Kreidich’s departure marks a significant transition for ADA and the broader independent music landscape, leaving a legacy of growth, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to artist empowerment.
