Josh Van Valkenburg Named President of UMPG Nashville, Troy Tomlinson to Shift Into Advisory Role

Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG) announced a reshuffle of its Nashville leadership that will see longtime executive Josh Van Valkenburg step into the role of President, while veteran Troy Tomlinson moves into an advisory capacity. The changes, slated to take effect on Jan. 4, signal a strategic pivot for the company as it seeks to deepen its footprint in country music and adapt to an evolving publishing landscape.

What Happened

Effective Jan. 4, Josh Van Valkenburg will assume the presidency of UMPG Nashville, reporting directly to UMPG chairman and CEO Jody Gerson. In tandem, Troy Tomlinson, who has been a cornerstone of UMPG’s Nashville operations for more than a decade, will transition from his day‑to‑day executive duties to an advisory role, where he will continue to lend his industry expertise and relationships to the organization.

The announcement was made through a joint press release from UMPG and its Nashville office, underscoring the company’s confidence in Van Valkenburg’s ability to lead the market’s most vibrant songwriting hub. Tomlinson’s shift to an advisory position is presented as a “natural evolution” that allows him to focus on mentorship and strategic initiatives without the pressures of daily management.

Key Details

Van Valkenburg brings more than 15 years of publishing experience to the presidency, having risen through the ranks at UMPG and previously serving as senior vice president of the Nashville division. His tenure has been marked by successful signings, chart‑topping collaborations, and a reputation for nurturing emerging talent alongside established songwriters. In his new role, he will oversee all aspects of the Nashville operation, including A&R, catalog management, and business development.

Tomlinson’s advisory role will focus on high‑level strategy, talent mentorship, and fostering partnerships across the broader UMPG network. While he will step back from operational responsibilities, his deep connections with artists, producers, and industry executives will remain a valuable asset as UMPG pursues new growth opportunities in the region.

Background

UMPG Nashville has long been a powerhouse in the country music publishing world, representing a roster that includes multiple Grammy‑winning songwriters and chart‑dominant hits. The division has consistently contributed a significant share of UMPG’s global revenue, thanks to the genre’s robust radio, streaming, and live‑performance markets.

Both Van Valkenburg and Tomlinson have played pivotal roles in shaping that success. Tomlinson, who joined UMPG in 2009, helped expand the company’s catalog and forge key relationships with major country artists. Van Valkenburg, a former songwriter himself, transitioned into publishing and quickly earned a reputation for his keen ear and ability to match songs with the right performers.

Why It Matters

The leadership shift arrives at a time when the music publishing industry is navigating rapid changes in streaming royalties, data analytics, and songwriter compensation models. By installing Van Valkenburg—who is known for his data‑driven approach and collaborative style—UMPG aims to stay ahead of these trends and continue delivering value to its songwriters.

Tomlinson’s move to an advisory capacity also reflects a broader industry pattern of leveraging seasoned executives as mentors and strategic consultants. His continued involvement ensures continuity and preserves the institutional knowledge that has helped UMPG Nashville maintain its competitive edge.

What Happens Next

In the coming weeks, Van Valkenburg will outline his vision for the Nashville office, likely emphasizing talent development, cross‑genre collaborations, and expanded digital initiatives. Stakeholders anticipate that he will also prioritize strengthening relationships with streaming platforms and leveraging UMPG’s global network to amplify the reach of Nashville songwriters.

Meanwhile, Tomlinson is expected to focus on advisory projects that could include mentorship programs for up‑and‑coming writers, advisory boards for emerging publishing technologies, and high‑level negotiations with label partners. Both leaders have indicated a collaborative transition plan to ensure a seamless handover of responsibilities.

With the leadership change set to take effect at the start of the new year, UMPG Nashville is poised to continue its legacy of chart‑topping hits while adapting to the evolving demands of the music publishing ecosystem. The combined experience of Van Valkenburg’s operational acumen and Tomlinson’s strategic insight promises to keep the division at the forefront of country music’s creative engine.