Chris Ruff
Los Angeles,CA
Summary
Results-driven marketing executive with over 17 years of extensive global experience in the music and entertainment industries. Expertise in creative brand development, revenue enhancement, and the implementation of innovative marketing strategies. A strong history of cultivating high-value partnerships and driving sustainable business growth. Proven leadership in managing dynamic teams, negotiating multi-million dollar agreements, and enhancing streaming performance, ticket sales, and artist brand equity. Committed advocate for diversity, equality, and inclusion within the industry.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
Work History
Head of Global Marketing & Creative
Activist Artists Management
01.2022 - Current
- Responsible for global marketing campaigns across Activist Artist Management's diverse portfolios, significantly enhancing visibility for high-profile clients like The Grateful Dead, The Lumineers, Young the Giant, The Pretty Reckless, All Elite Wrestling, and Bare-Knuckle Fighting Championship.
- Spearheaded a 500% increase in artist streaming growth, a 25% surge in concert ticket sales, and expanded the artist management roster by 50% within 12 months.
- Negotiated and secured six and seven-figure contracts, optimized revenue streams, and elevated artist brand value across global markets.
- Supervised AEW's external ground-breaking music division, leading cutting-edge marketing campaigns and overseeing strategic partnerships.
- Conducted a record-breaking marketing strategy for AEW 'All In' at Wembley Stadium, achieving 81K+-the highest global attendance for a paid wrestling show.
- Over $20M in gross revenue was generated across artist management and new business ventures.
- Co-led the creation of a new music festival in partnership with Live Nation, expanding the company's footprint in the live entertainment space.
- Developed a training initiative through the Activist Senior Leadership Committee, uplifting staff capabilities and investing in future leadership.
- Provided critical A&R support to enhance artist development.
VP, Domestic Marketing / Head of International Marketing
Elektra Music Group (WMG)
10.2018 - 12.2021
- Built and led Elektra's award-winning international marketing department, driving revenue growth and enhancing artist visibility across a roster of 70+ artists in 52 global markets.
- Increased global revenue from $70 to $105M over three years, positioning Elektra as a dominant force in international markets.
- Designed multi-platinum, award-winning marketing campaigns enhancing the market share of the world's third-largest recording company.
- These included artists as diverse as Tones and I, Pink Pantheress, Panic! at the Disco, Paramore, Slipknot, and Turnstile.
- Fostered high-value label partnerships, enhancing distribution, licensing, and brand opportunities for Elektra's roster.
- Oversee and manage label P&L.
Senior Marketing Manager (Domestic)
Atlantic Records UK/Fueled By Ramen/Roadrunner Records
01.2008 - 10.2018
- Drove high-impact marketing strategies for global icons across multiple genres, solidifying Atlantic Records' reputation as industry leaders.
- Led marketing for Ed Sheeran's 'x' and '÷' album campaigns, contributing to multi-platinum sales and global chart dominance.
- Managed global pop, rock, and alternative marketing efforts for Fueled By Ramen and Roadrunner Records, overseeing campaigns for the likes of The War on Drugs, Clean Bandit, James Blunt, Bruno Mars, and Kelly Clarkson.
- Developed and launched breakthrough artists, including Jamie Lawson and Kehlani, propelling them to #1-selling status.
- Directed all marketing efforts for Ed Sheeran's 'Gingerbread Man Records', ensuring strategic positioning and market visibility for the label's roster.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - History
Bath University
Bath, United Kingdom06.2008
Skills
- Global marketing strategy & execution
- Artist development & positioning
- Business development & growth
- High-value contract negotiations
- Cross-functional leadership
- Team management
- Diversity and Inclusion
- A&R oversight
Industry Memberships And Boards
- Grammy Member
- Country Music Awards Member
- Heavy Music Awards Judge
- City of Hope - Future Hope Board Member
- Love Music, Hate Racism - Board Member
- U.K Citizen - Green Card Holder
Timeline
Head of Global Marketing & Creative
Activist Artists Management
01.2022 - Current
VP, Domestic Marketing / Head of International Marketing
Elektra Music Group (WMG)
10.2018 - 12.2021
Senior Marketing Manager (Domestic)
Atlantic Records UK/Fueled By Ramen/Roadrunner Records
01.2008 - 10.2018
Bachelor of Arts - History
Bath University
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