Neil Portnow is out.
Bad news for supporters of the Recording Academy President’s loyalists below…
Following a wave of negative press, partially fuelled by the Academy’s decision to hit Beyonce and Jay-Z with several Grammy snubs, Portnow has made the decision to step down from his powerful position.
At the heart of his departure? The irreparable damage caused by remarks he made in response to claims that women were underrepresented at the ceremony.
Women need to step it up.
Now, after facing condemnation from Pink, Kelly Clarkson, Katy Perry and others, Portnow has decided to pull the plug on his time at the Grammys after becoming its longest-running leader.
The evolution of industries, institutions and organizations is ultimately the key to their relevance, longevity and success. Having been a member of the Recording Academy for four decades, serving as an elected leader and our President/CEO, I have not only witnessed our evolution, but proudly contributed significantly to the Academy’s growth and stature in the world. When I had the honor of being selected to lead this great organization in 2002, I vowed that on my watch, for the first time in our history, we would have a thoughtful, well-planned and collegial transition. With a little more than a year remaining on my current contract, I’ve decided that this is an appropriate time to deliver on that promise. Accordingly, I’ll be working with our Board to put the various elements in place that will ensure transparency, best practices, and the Academy’s ability to find the very best, brightest, and qualified leadership to take us into our seventh decade of operation. I truly look forward to continuing my role leading the Academy in the year ahead, and to continuing the pursuit of excellence and the fine missions we embrace and deliver.
Photo credit: Randee St. Nicholas.