Dune, a Manchester, UK-based startup that lets music fans buy tradable stakes in artists based on streaming performance, has made two key additions to its leadership team.
Thom Brunner has been appointed Chief Operating Officer, and Max Crowther has been named Head of Artist Services, both effective immediately.
The hires arrive as Dune nears completion of a GBP £2 million (USD $2.6 million) Series A funding round, preparing for its official launch.
Dune, founded by music entrepreneurs Paul Knowles and Paul Bowe, is described as an “app-based engagement platform enabling music fans to buy a ‘stake’ in their favourite artists”, which then fluctuates in value daily based on their streaming data”.
Fans also receive exclusive benefits from artists and can trade their stakes through the platform, with artists receiving income and valuable fan insights from any stakes sold, accordign to the company.
In his new role as Chief Operating Officer, Brunner will oversee day-to-day operations, strategic planning, business development, artist and industry partnerships, and the execution of Dune’s rollout strategy.
The exec is based in London and reporting to Dune’s co-CEOs Paul Knowles and Paul Bowe.
Brunner brings experience across music marketing, artist relations and creative development. As a partner at broadcast PR agency Sassy Media, he spent over 15 years delivering high-profile campaigns for artists including Paloma Faith, Craig David, Muse, Jennifer Lopez and Sophie Ellis-Bextor, working across all major labels as well as numerous independents.
He also founded Electric Friends Management, managing artists such as Phoebe Green and Swiss Lips. He began his career in the marketing department at Warner Music, working on campaigns for Biffy Clyro, The Wombats, Marina and the Diamonds and Pendulum.
In Manchester, Max Crowther steps into the newly defined role of Head of Artist Services, reporting directly to Brunner. He will oversee the full artist-support ecosystem for the Dune App, from initial outreach and onboarding through to the launch and activation of artist ‘stakes’.
His remit includes building and maintaining Dune’s CRM and tracking systems, managing assets and communications, developing workflows, and providing direct guidance to artists to help them maximise their experience on the platform. In addition, he will lead strategic direction across A&R and street-team initiatives.
Crowther began his career in live music, programming and venue operations, developing deep expertise in stage management, artist liaison, event coordination and the wider operational processes that support artists.
He later founded Clampdown Promotion, working with artists, venues and creative teams on programming, touring strategy, development and system design experience.
“From the very beginning, I felt completely aligned with the Dune team in our passion and vision for where this business can go.”
Thom Brunner
“From the very beginning, I felt completely aligned with the Dune team in our passion and vision for where this business can go. Too many artists are struggling in today’s music landscape, and I truly believe that we have the power to make a real and significant impact, which is why I didn’t hesitate to accept this opportunity,” said Brunner.
Co-CEO Paul Knowles added: “We first met Thom to discuss an artist he was working with, but were immediately struck by his energy, insight, and collaborative spirit. It was clear from that first meeting that he was someone we wanted to work with.
“So, when he later expressed genuine interest in being part of what we’re building at Dune, the timing couldn’t have been better. Thom’s experience and talent are exactly what we need at this pivotal stage of our growth, and we’re delighted to have him join us on this journey.”
“The more time I spend with the team at Dune, the more I’m struck by how clearly it answers real problems for artists.”
Max Crowther
Crowther added: “The more time I spend with the team at Dune, the more I’m struck by how clearly it answers real problems for artists. The vision behind it aligns perfectly with the kind of work I’ve always gravitated toward, supporting artists, building structure around creativity, and creating systems that actually help people thrive.
“Being able to step into this role and contribute to something with this much potential feels genuinely inspiring, and I’m excited to help shape where Dune goes next!”
“Max is a phenomenal music business talent. His work with Clampdown Promotions in Manchester has gained his company a reputation for delivering high-end, diverse events.”
Paul Bowe, Dune
Co-CEO Paul Bowe, said: “Max is a phenomenal music business talent. His work with Clampdown Promotions in Manchester has gained his company a reputation for delivering high-end, diverse events.
“His eye for discovering emerging talent is exceptional, and his ability to operate our core administration whilst liaising with established artists, management and the wider team has been nothing short of exceptional. We’re proud to have Max with us on this journey.”
Music Business Worldwide
