WC'S GONZALES IS LONDON-BOUND 

Shani Gonzales will take the reins at Warner Chappell Music U.K. as Managing Director beginning 10/1. She will continue to hold her existing post as Head of International A&R for the company’s global business.

In her new role, Gonzales reports to Guy Moot. In January, she plans to relocate to London where she will work closely with Kate Alderton, the newly appointed VP of Operations and Finance, and Head of A&R Amber Davis, as well as overseeing the music publisher’s London-based global and regional department heads. She replaces Mike Smith, who exited earlier this year.

“Shani’s such a talented leader who has catapulted so many songwriters to the very top with her tenacious drive to see them succeed,” Moot said of the appointment. “With a natural affinity and intuitive connection to her writers, I know that she’ll use her gift of fostering meaningful relationships to further develop and grow our vibrant U.K. roster.”

Since rejoining Warner Chappell less than a year ago, Gonzales has helped to build the company’s international A&R efforts by focusing on integrating and connecting the company’s global roster of talent across borders, including Ari Pensmith (London), Capital Bra (Germany), El Guincho (Spain), Fred Ball (London) and Jack & Coke (Sweden).

She has also managed the crossover of songwriters into new markets, recently connecting Tay Keith with two of the most in-demand rappers in the U.K., AJ Tracey and Aitch, to create the #1 hit "Rain."