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UK Music Welcomes Appointment of New PRS for Music CEO Ben McOwen Wilson

UK Music Chief Executive Tom Kiehl has welcomed the appointment of new PRS for Music Chief Executive Office Ben McOwen Wilson.

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24.07.2026: UK Music Chief Executive Tom Kiehl has welcomed the appointment of new PRS for Music Chief Executive Officer Ben McOwen Wilson.

Ben is set to arrive at the company on October 12 and will succeed outgoing CEO Andrea Czapary Martin.

He brings with him over 25 years of experience across the creative industries, including leadership roles at YouTube and Google Play. He has also worked with the UK’s Creative Industries Council and the Creative Industries Federation.

UK Music Chief Executive Tom Kiehl said: “UK Music welcomes the appointment of Ben McOwen Wilson as the new Chief Executive Officer of PRS for Music. His leadership skills and huge experience across the creative industries will be a fantastic asset at such a pivotal time for our sector. We know that he will be a powerful advocate for songwriters, composers and publishers and ensure they are front and centre when it comes to navigating a fast-changing technological landscape.

“We look forward to working with Ben in our joint efforts to champion the rights of creators, businesses and all those involved in our brilliant sector that contributes £8 billion to the economy.”

Julian Nott, Chair of the PRS Members’ Council, said: “Songwriters, composers and publishers need a society working tirelessly to champion them and their rights.  A society which embraces innovation and has the confidence to shape the future, not simply respond to it.

“Ben is an outstanding leader with all the skills necessary to guide PRS for Music through the many changes in the music industry and the wider media market.

“Ben impressed us from the very beginning. He understands the technologies that are transforming the creative industries, but he also understands that innovation only succeeds if it works for the creators. We are confident that he will champion members’ interests at home and around the world, leading us boldly into the next phase of our evolution.”

Ben McOwen Wilson said: “PRS for Music is built on trust, transparency, and a relentless commitment to its members. It is a privilege to lead this organisation at a time when the voice of the creator must be louder than ever.

“In the age of AI and accelerated digital distribution, protecting the integrity and value of human creativity is our most urgent priority. My focus will be on ensuring PRS serves as a catalyst for our members’ success, ensuring they remain at the centre of a sustainable and growing global music ecosystem.

“My first priority will be to listen and learn. To understand the needs of members, customers, and partners, and with them shape an ambitious future for the society. I am excited by the opportunities ahead of us and committed to serve our members’ interests unswervingly.”

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