Sarah Trahern, CEO of the Country Music Association (CMA), has announced that she will retire at the end of 2026, bringing to a close a 12-year tenure leading one of the most influential trade organizations in the US music industry.
She will work with CMA’s board and senior leadership during the transition period. CMA’s Board of Directors has formed a search committee and appointed executive search firm Buffkin Baker to lead the process of identifying Trahern’s successor. Further details on the search are expected to be announced in February.
During her time in the role, the organization advanced its mission to heighten the awareness of Country Music and support its ongoing growth, both domestically and internationally.
Under her leadership, CMA has deepened its commitment to its members – artists, songwriters, touring personnel, and all professionals across the creative and business sectors – ensuring the association remains grounded in service to the people who power Country Music.
“After much reflection, I’ve made the decision to retire and embrace this next chapter of life – one that allows me to remain connected to this industry in ways that continue to inspire me, while also creating space for the people and moments that matter most to me.”
Sarah Trahern, CEO of the Country Music Association
CMA’s major television and live-event properties, including the CMA Awards, CMA Fest, and CMA Country Christmas, continued to operate as core drivers of visibility for the genre during Trahern’s tenure. The events are broadcast on ABC and form a central part of CMA’s commercial and cultural footprint.
In a statement, Trahern said: “Leading the Country Music Association has been the privilege of my career. I am incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished together in service of this industry and its people, and deeply grateful for the community that makes Country Music what it is. After much reflection, I’ve made the decision to retire and embrace this next chapter of life – one that allows me to remain connected to this industry in ways that continue to inspire me, while also creating space for the people and moments that matter most to me, including time with my husband, Wayne, getting outdoors, and simple nights at home with our dog, Riley.”
“Her influence has shaped not only CMA but the future of Country Music itself.”
Jay Williams, Co-Head and Partner at WME and Chair of CMA’s Board
During Trahern’s leadership, CMA increased its investment in industry-facing programs, including initiatives responding to COVID-19-related disruption, natural disasters, and mental health challenges within the music workforce.
At the same time, CMA has strengthened its global engagement, with Trahern guiding efforts to deepen connections in key international markets and elevate Country Music’s presence worldwide.
Trahern also serves as President of the CMA Foundation, the organization’s philanthropic arm focused on music education. According to CMA, the foundation has invested more than $30 million in music education initiatives to date, supported in part by proceeds from CMA Fest.
Prior to joining CMA, Trahern held senior roles across television and media, including positions at C-SPAN, The Nashville Network (TNN), and as General Manager of Great American Country (GAC).
Her industry recognition includes being named Billboard’s Country Power Players Executive of the Year in 2017 and receiving the Bob Kingsley Living Legend Award from the Grand Ole Opry in 2024.
Jay Williams, Co-Head and Partner at WME and Chair of CMA’s Board, said Trahern’s leadership had left “an indelible mark” on both the organization and the wider country music industry.
“While we will deeply miss Sarah’s leadership, we are excited to carry forward the legacy she has established. Sarah leaves behind an indelible mark on both the Country Music Association and the broader industry. Her influence has shaped not only CMA but the future of Country Music itself.”Music Business Worldwide
