About Company
Punch Records is an award-winning music and arts organisation rooted in the vibrant cultural landscape of Birmingham, UK. For over two decades, we have been at the forefront of championing diverse talent, developing artists, and producing groundbreaking projects that resonate locally and internationally. Our mission is to inspire, educate, and entertain through the power of music and creative arts, focusing particularly on Black music and culture. We work tirelessly to identify, nurture, and elevate artists, providing platforms for their voices to be heard and their creativity to flourish. With a strong commitment to community engagement and artistic excellence, Punch Records isn’t just a label; it’s a movement that shapes the future of music and culture. Join our passionate team and be a part of a legacy of innovation and impact.
Job Description
Are you a visionary with an ear for the next big sound? Do you possess an insatiable passion for music discovery and artist development? Punch Records is seeking a dynamic and highly motivated A&R Representative to join our growing team in Birmingham. This is a unique opportunity for someone with a keen understanding of contemporary music trends, particularly within the diverse genres we champion, to make a significant impact on the careers of emerging artists.
As an A&R Representative, you will be the eyes and ears of Punch Records in the vibrant music scene, actively scouting for unsigned talent, evaluating demos, and attending live performances. Your primary focus will be to identify artists with commercial potential and artistic integrity that align with our brand and mission. Beyond discovery, you’ll play a crucial role in nurturing these relationships, providing creative feedback, and helping artists refine their sound and image. This position demands exceptional networking skills, a proactive approach to identifying opportunities, and a deep knowledge of the music industry’s evolving landscape.
You will work closely with our production, marketing, and legal teams to guide artists through the recording process, from initial signing to release and beyond. This involves understanding market trends, competitor analysis, and contributing to strategic planning for artist careers. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment, possess an entrepreneurial spirit, and are dedicated to empowering artists, we want to hear from you. This role is more than just a job; it’s a chance to shape the future of music and play a pivotal role in bringing exciting new talent to the global stage through Punch Records.
Key Responsibilities
- Actively scout and discover new musical talent through attending live shows, networking, social media, and reviewing unsolicited demos.
- Cultivate strong relationships with artists, managers, producers, and other industry professionals.
- Evaluate artist potential, providing constructive creative feedback and guidance on material development.
- Collaborate with internal teams (marketing, production, legal) to develop artist strategies, recording plans, and promotional campaigns.
- Monitor music industry trends, competitor activities, and emerging technologies to inform A&R strategies.
- Negotiate and structure artist deals, adhering to budget constraints and company guidelines.
- Oversee and manage recording projects, ensuring timely delivery and quality control.
- Represent Punch Records at industry events, festivals, and conferences.
Required Skills
- Proven experience (2+ years) in a talent scouting, artist management, or A&R role within the music industry.
- Extensive knowledge of contemporary music genres and a deep understanding of current music trends, particularly in urban, hip-hop, R&B, and world music.
- Exceptional networking and relationship-building abilities.
- Strong communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to identify and articulate an artist's unique selling proposition.
- Proactive, self-motivated, and results-oriented with an entrepreneurial mindset.
- Proficiency in music production software and digital audio workstations (DAWs) is a plus.
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Music Business, Arts Management, Marketing, or a related field.
- Demonstrable track record of successful artist signings or development.
- Experience working with independent artists and managing multiple projects simultaneously.
- Understanding of music copyright, publishing, and licensing.
- Active participation in the local Birmingham music scene.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
- Generous paid time off and public holidays.
- Comprehensive health and wellness benefits package.
- Company pension scheme.
- Opportunities for professional development and industry training.
- Access to industry events, concerts, and festivals.
- Collaborative and creative work environment.
- Hybrid work model for flexibility and work-life balance.
How to Apply
If you are ready to unleash your A&R potential and contribute to the success of groundbreaking artists, we encourage you to apply! Please click on the application link below to submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you are the ideal candidate for this role. We look forward to discovering your talent.