announced today that longtime President James Donio will be succeeded in this role by Portia Sabin, who will assume day-to-day operations beginning on September 3. Sabin has been president of the indie label Kill Rock Stars since 2006 and has long been active with the American Association of Independent Music .“We are extremely grateful to Jim for his more than three decades of commitment, leadership and vision,” saidBoard Chairman Matt Signore.
Sabin started her career in music as the drummer in NYC pop-punk band The Hissyfits. She then opened an artist management company, Shotclock Management, before taking over the reins at Kill Rock Stars in 2006. In 2014, she created the popular music business podcast “in an effort to broaden awareness of issues important to the industry.
“I am looking forward to embracing this new challenge,” said Sabin. “I’ve been very impressed with how the Music Biz conference has become a hub for the important discussions that need to be taking place in the industry, and I am excited to be joining an organization that embraces all aspects of the community. I am grateful to Jim for building such a strong foundation and am confident he’ll be just as successful in his future endeavors.
Donio started work at the then National Association of Recording Merchandisers in 1988 as Director of Creative Services, and rose in the ranks to become its President in 2003. Donio plans to continue his professorships in Music Business at Monmouth University in New Jersey and Temple University in Philadelphia, as well as engaging in other consulting and writing opportunities.
“I have spent literally half of my life at this Association, and the memorable experiences I’ve had and the close relationships and friendships I’ve made in the industry are irreplaceable,” said Donio. “I’ve also had the incredible good fortune to work with the most amazing staff of professionals that I consider to be more than colleagues…they are family to me.