DEF JAM UPS FARAG TO EVP/GM

Promo exec Nicki Farag has been promoted to Executive Vice President and General Manager of Def Jam Recordings. She has been with the label for 18 years.

As EVP and GM, Farag will oversee the company’s day-to-day operations, working with artists, managers and staff to develop strategies and execute plans on behalf of its roster. Based in Santa Monica, Calif., Farag will report to Def Jam interim Chairman and CEO Jeffrey Harleston.

“Nicki is a seasoned, consummate professional and true leader,” said Harleston. “She has the unique ability to understand and inspire confidence in artists, the passion and tenacity to champion their artistry and the tireless energy to rally her staff to compete and achieve greatness.”

Farag was previously EVP of Promotion. She was the first female executive to hold that title in the label’s history. She’s been instrumental in breaking dozens of artists and records nationally over the past decade, including Justin Bieber, Jay-Z, Rihanna, Kanye West, Big Sean, YG, Alessia Cara and Logic. Farag is also co-chair of Def Jam Forward, the label’s task force for social-justice reform.

“Def Jam is a label with a distinct culture and DNA that has defined music for over 35 years,” said Farag. “In my nearly two decades at Def Jam, I’ve never seen so much momentum and energy from our staff or with our artists. With Jeff’s leadership, we have all the pieces in place to take Def Jam to an even greater level of success.”

Former GM Rich Isaacson left the label last month.