The Academy of Country Music (ACM) job board has grown by one. Today (March 3), the Academy of Country Music’s longtime Chief Executive Officer, Damon Whiteside, announced his intention to step away from the post in June.
In a statement shared with ENVERT, Whiteside reflected on his time with the ACM.
“I am proud of everything we have accomplished together in my time at the Academy of Country Music,” said Whiteside. “I am thankful for the amazing team that I have mentored and learned from, our many strategic partners that have helped us continue to innovate, as well as the ACM and ACM Lifting Lives Boards for their leadership that will guide the Academy into its bright future.”
Whiteside went on to discuss his forthcoming departure, saying: “I believe that I am leaving ACM in a better place with stability and security that will allow the organization to continue to grow and reach new heights. I am excited for my next act as I explore my passions and continue to learn and create impact in the entertainment industry.”
The chair of ACM’s Board of Directors, Cris Lacy, reflected fondly on Whiteside’s tenure.
“Damon’s forward-thinking vision and leadership not only strengthened ACM’s connection to the Country Music community and industry, but also allowed us to attract new audiences around the world,” said Lacy. “The ACM Board is beyond thankful for his partnership, dedication, and passion, which have set the organization up for continued success and impact well into the future.”
Whiteside assumed the role in December 2019 after serving as the Country Music Association’s (CMA) Chief Marketing Officer. During his time with the Academy of Country Music, Whiteside accomplished many things, including increasing ACM membership and spiking the organization’s profits by 150% last year alone. Whiteside executive-produced several ACM events, including the ACM Honors, ACM Our Country, and ACM Awards. Whiteside expanded the ACM Awards’ digital footprint when he repositioned the ceremony into a streaming-first event by way of a partnership with Amazon Prime Video.
The Academy of Country Music has not yet confirmed who will head the organization after Whiteside’s departure.
