About the RoleFirebird is seeking a VP, Music Rights Acquisitions to lead the identification, evaluation, and execution of music catalog and rights acquisitions for Firebird Music Rights. This position is a senior, deal-focused role sitting at the intersection of music, finance, and strategy; responsible for leading transactions from origination through close with excellence and efficiency.
Reporting to the President of Firebird Music Rights, this individual will build a world-class catalog acquisition operation, leading the evaluation, structuring, negotiation, and execution of music rights investments across recorded music, publishing, neighboring rights, and other music-related IP assets. The ideal candidate brings deep knowledge of music rights, strong transaction experience, and a genuine passion for the music industry.
Key Responsibilities- Lead end-to-end acquisition processes for music-related IP assets, from identification and initial valuation through due diligence, deal structuring, and close
- Represent Firebird in the marketplace as a trusted and creative capital partner to rightsholders and their advisors
- Develop investment theses and return frameworks for prospective acquisitions along with establishing systems and workflow processes across the full music rights acquisition process
- Lead investment underwriting including building and maintaining financial models to assess catalog value and returns
- Collaborate with our Label Services and Data + Insights teams to analyze and execute active management initiatives
- Prepare investment memos and materials that clearly communicate deal rationale, risk, and upside; and present materials to senior management (Investment Committee, Board)
- Partner with Business Affairs and external legal teams to structure and negotiate deal terms
- Support post-acquisition integration, working with Finance, Royalties, and Label Services to ensure assets are effectively onboarded and performing to thesis
- Conduct market research on catalog sales activity, buyer behavior, and trends to inform Firebird's acquisition strategy and pricing thesis
- Stay current on music industry trends including regulatory changes, emerging rights categories, streaming economics, and M&A activity across the music rights landscape
Qualifications- 8-10 years of experience in music rights valuation and catalog acquisitions, with a demonstrated track record of leading the underwriting, negotiation, and execution of music rights transactions
- Deep understanding of music publishing and recorded music economics: royalty structures, revenue streams, licensing, and catalog valuation methodologies
- Expert financial modeling skills: DCF, multiples-based valuation, scenario analysis, and sensitivity modeling
- Ability to interpret and translate complex contract terms into clear financial and strategic insights
- Strong network across the music industry: rightsholders, attorneys, managers, and deal intermediaries
- Exceptional communication skills; able to present complex analysis clearly
- Proficiency in Excel for modeling; familiarity with rights management or catalog management tools
How We Take Care of the Flock- Ownership: Equity participation for everyone
- Health & Wealth: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plus 401(k) with company match
- Performance Rewards: Annual bonuses tied to results
- Flexibility: Flexible PTO and hybrid in-office schedules for those in NYC
- Access: Live shows, festivals, and the music community you're helping create
- Growth: Learn from people who've built careers at majors, independents, and startups
