Director, Creative Marketing - Hip Hop & R&B/ Film & TV

📌 Core Information

🔹 Job Title: Director, Creative Marketing - Hip Hop & R&B/ Film & TV

🔹 Company: Sony

🔹 Location: United States

🔹 Job Type: Full-Time

🔹 Category: Music Industry

🔹 Date Posted: 2025-05-21

🔹 Experience Level: 5-10 years

🔹 Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Job Overview

Key aspects of this role include:

• Ensuring authentic representation of Hip Hop culture in sync opportunities
• Facilitating collaborations between SMP’s artists and producers
• Negotiating high-level sync deals in the film and TV sector
• Managing a robust roster of A-level clients
• Providing creative feedback from a sync standpoint

ASSUMPTION: This role requires a deep understanding of Hip Hop culture and the sync licensing process. It involves significant networking and relationship-building with both internal and external stakeholders.

📋 Key Responsibilities

✅ Build connections with SMP’s artists, producers, and labels, facilitating collaborations and licensing opportunities

✅ Provide valuable input on song selection and placement, enhancing the emotional impact of sync projects

✅ Familiarity with copyright and licensing issues can streamline negotiations and reduce potential legal complications regarding samples and interpolations

✅ Build a genuine bridge with the frontline A&R department to ensure cross collaboration for selective songwriters, attending A&R (frontline) meetings regularly

✅ Attend studio sessions and any other music making sessions, providing comprehensive creative feedback from a sync standpoint

✅ Develop and deliver initiatives to provide creative opportunities to frontline Hip Hop and R&B songwriters and their catalogues

✅ Negotiate and issue approvals/quotes for high level sync deals in the film and TV sector including promos, trailers and other media as needed

✅ Manage a robust roster of A-level clients to make sure all our customers’ requests are met and processed in a timely manner

✅ Communicate efficiently and effectively with writer approval parties and estates

✅ Partner effectively across internal divisions and with external partners using excellent communication skills

✅ Price the catalog strategically and competitively and have a deep understanding of relevant sync history and fee structures

✅ Pitch the SMP catalog to respective A-level clients to procure placements for our writers/copyrights in the sync marketplace

✅ Engage with SMP artists to create original songs and cover versions specifically for sync opportunities

✅ Attend showcases, concerts, and other relevant events as it relates to business to liaise with our songwriters and their management teams

ASSUMPTION: This role requires a high level of creativity, strategic thinking, and strong interpersonal skills. It involves working closely with various teams and stakeholders to maximize sync opportunities for SMP’s artists and catalogues.

🎯 Required Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Music Business, Marketing, or a related field

Experience: 5+ years’ experience in sync licensing and/or music supervision

Required Skills:

• Proven track record in sync licensing and music supervision
• Deep understanding of Hip Hop culture and the sync licensing process
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment
• Familiarity with copyright and licensing issues

Preferred Skills:

• Experience working with A-level clients in the film and TV industry
• Fluency in additional languages (Spanish, French, etc.)

ASSUMPTION: Candidates with a strong network in the Hip Hop and R&B music industry and experience working with high-profile clients will be particularly well-suited to this role.

💰 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $91,350 - $95,000 (This range does not include other compensation components or benefits)

Benefits:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Life and disability coverage
• 401K with employer matching
• Voluntary benefits (company-paid identity theft protection, mental health resources, etc.)
• Paid leave for childbirth or bonding, caregivers, and loved ones with developmental disabilities
• Subsidized back-up child and elder care
• Reimbursement for adoption, surrogacy, tuition, and student loans

Working Hours: 7.5-hour business workday, but variations in work volume frequently require extended working hours for evening and late-night events

ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards for a role of this level and experience. The actual base salary offered may vary based on the qualifications of the individual applicant and other factors.

📌 Applicant Insights

🔍 Company Context

Industry: Sony Music Publishing is a global leader in music publishing, representing some of the world’s greatest songwriters and composers. The company is a part of the Sony family of global companies.

Company Size: Sony is a large, multinational corporation with over 127,000 employees worldwide. This role is within the Sony Music Publishing division, which has a smaller, more focused team.

Founded: Sony was founded in 1946, and Sony Music Publishing was established in 1995.

Company Description:

• Sony Music Publishing is the #1 global music publisher, advancing the artistry of the world’s greatest songwriters and composers for over 25 years.
• The company keeps songwriters at the forefront of everything they do, designing a suite of services to amplify opportunities, build connections, and defend their rights.
• Sony Music Publishing’s roster benefits from an international team committed to providing support at every career stage, from classic catalogues to contemporary hitmakers.

Company Specialties:

• Music publishing
• Sync licensing
• Artist development
• Creative marketing

Company Website: https://www.sonymusicpub.com/en

ASSUMPTION: Sony Music Publishing is a well-established company with a strong global presence and a reputation for excellence in the music industry.

📊 Role Analysis

Career Level: This role is at the senior management level, reporting directly to the Head of Creative Marketing or a similar executive.

Reporting Structure: The Director of Creative Marketing will oversee a team of sync licensing and creative marketing professionals, as well as collaborate with other departments within Sony Music Publishing and Sony Music Group.

Work Arrangement: This role is on-site, with some travel required. The work arrangement may include evening and late-night events, as well as occasional weekend work.

Growth Opportunities:

• Progression to a Vice President or Senior Vice President role within the Creative Marketing department
• Expansion into other areas of the music industry, such as A&R or artist management
• Opportunities to work on high-profile projects and collaborate with industry leaders

ASSUMPTION: This role offers significant opportunities for career growth and development within the music industry. It is well-suited to an experienced professional looking to take the next step in their career.

🌍 Location & Work Environment

Office Type: Sony Music Publishing has a modern office environment designed to foster productivity, creativity, and teamwork.

Office Location(s): The primary office for this role is in the United States, with affiliate offices in Japan, China, and Europe.

Geographic Context:

• The United States has a vibrant and diverse music industry, with a strong focus on Hip Hop and R&B.
• Sony Music Publishing’s global presence allows for opportunities to work with international artists and industry professionals.
• The work environment may include evening and late-night events, as well as occasional travel.

Work Schedule: The work schedule is typically 7.5 hours per day, but may vary based on work volume and project demands.

ASSUMPTION: The work environment for this role is dynamic and fast-paced, with a strong emphasis on creativity, collaboration, and innovation.

💼 Interview & Application Insights

Typical Process:

• Phone or video screening to assess communication skills and cultural fit
• In-depth interview with the hiring manager and/or other department members to discuss the role and qualifications
• Final interview with senior leadership to discuss career goals and fit within the organization

Key Assessment Areas:

• Cultural understanding and authenticity in representing Hip Hop and R&B artists
• Sync licensing and negotiation skills
• Communication and interpersonal skills
• Creativity and strategic thinking

Application Tips:

• Highlight relevant experience in sync licensing and music supervision, with a focus on Hip Hop and R&B
• Demonstrate a strong understanding of the music industry and Sony Music Publishing’s roster
• Showcase creativity and strategic thinking in your cover letter and resume

ATS Keywords: Sync licensing, music supervision, Hip Hop, R&B, creative marketing, Sony Music Publishing, negotiation, communication, collaboration

ASSUMPTION: The application process for this role is competitive, and candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their qualifications and cultural fit through a thorough interview process.

🛠️ Tools & Technologies

• Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Music industry-specific software (e.g., MusicMaster, MediaBase)
• Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello)

ASSUMPTION: This role requires proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and music industry-specific software. Familiarity with project management tools is also beneficial.

👔 Cultural Fit Considerations

Company Values:

• Creativity
• Collaboration
• Integrity
• Excellence
• Diversity and inclusion

Work Style:

• Dynamic and fast-paced
• Creative and innovative
• Collaborative and team-oriented
• Results-driven

Self-Assessment Questions:

• How do you ensure authentic representation of Hip Hop culture in sync opportunities?
• Can you describe a time when you successfully negotiated a high-level sync deal in the film and TV sector?
• How do you balance the need for creativity with the demands of a fast-paced work environment?

ASSUMPTION: Sony Music Publishing values creativity, collaboration, and excellence. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their fit with these values and work style in the interview process.

⚠️ Potential Challenges

• Managing a large roster of A-level clients and meeting their requests in a timely manner
• Balancing the demands of a fast-paced work environment with the need for creativity and strategic thinking
• Navigating the complexities of copyright and licensing issues in sync licensing
• Working with a diverse range of artists, producers, and industry professionals

ASSUMPTION: This role presents significant challenges, but also offers substantial opportunities for career growth and development.

📈 Similar Roles Comparison

• This role is unique in its focus on Hip Hop and R&B sync licensing and creative marketing within the music publishing industry
• Similar roles may be found in music supervision, artist management, or A&R within the music industry
• Career paths in this role may lead to senior management or executive positions within the music industry

ASSUMPTION: This role is well-suited to an experienced professional with a strong background in sync licensing and music supervision, as well as a deep understanding of Hip Hop and R&B culture.

📝 Sample Projects

• Negotiating a sync licensing deal for a Hip Hop artist’s track in a major motion picture
• Developing a creative marketing campaign to promote a R&B artist’s catalogue to film and TV industry professionals
• Attending a Hip Hop concert and networking with artists, producers, and industry professionals to identify sync opportunities

ASSUMPTION: These sample projects illustrate the creative and strategic thinking required for this role, as well as the need for a deep understanding of Hip Hop and R&B culture.

❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview

• How does this role fit into the overall strategy of Sony Music Publishing and the Creative Marketing department?
• What are the key priorities for this role in the first 30, 60, and 90 days?
• How does the company support the professional development and growth of its employees?
• What is the company’s approach to work-life balance, particularly for roles that may require evening and late-night work?
• How does the company foster a culture of diversity, inclusion, and belonging?

ASSUMPTION: These key questions help candidates assess the fit of the role and company culture with their personal and professional goals.

📌 Next Steps for Applicants

To apply for this position:

• Submit your application through this link
• Tailor your resume to highlight relevant experience in sync licensing, music supervision, and Hip Hop/R&B culture
• Write a cover letter that demonstrates your understanding of the role and your qualifications for success
• Prepare examples of your work in sync licensing and creative marketing to showcase your skills and achievements
• Follow up with the hiring manager one week after submitting your application to express your interest and reiterate your qualifications

⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.