ByteDance’s Global Head of Music Business Development, Ole Obermann, has announced his departure from TikTok, effective end of March, with former Warner Music executive Tracy Gardner stepping into the role. 

According to Music Business Worldwide (MBW), citing sources familiar with the matter, Obermann will assume a business development position at Apple Music.

In an internal memo distributed February 18, obtained by MBW, Obermann reflected on his five-and-a-half-year tenure at TikTok, expressing pride in the platform’s impact on music discovery. 

“Music is one of life’s greatest joys, and TikTok made it possible for fans to connect with their favorite songs and artists in a way that was never possible in the past,” Obermann wrote. “TikTok unlocked new and creative ways for people to engage with music, which means that songs – both new and old – were discovered and shared and found new audiences like never before.”

In a December interview with Hits Daily Double, Obermann noted that TikTok achieved over 170 billion daily video views of licensed music and generated more than 45 billion video creations using licensed music in 2023, establishing itself as a leading music discovery destination.

Key Achievements and Industry Partnerships

Under Obermann’s leadership, TikTok secured several significant partnerships, including a renewed licensing agreement with Universal Music Group in May 2024 following a brief dispute. 

The deal introduced improved compensation terms for artists and songwriters alongside commitments to responsible AI development.

Notable accomplishments during his tenure include establishing an exclusive artist partnership with Taylor Swift, supporting her “Eras Tour,” and “The Tortured Poets Department” album release. 

The platform also fostered relationships with artists, including Billie Eilish, Sabrina Carpenter, and Post Malone, while nurturing emerging talents like Tate McRae and Tyla.

“We leave behind what is woven into the lives of others,” Obermann reflected in his farewell message. “I am proud to have played a role in bringing so many people the joy of music while at TikTok. We have an amazing team and leadership and music will continue to thrive and evolve on TikTok.”

Gardner, who joined ByteDance in November 2019 as Head of Label Licensing and Partnerships, brings extensive industry experience from her previous role as SVP of Global Business Development and Strategy at Warner Music Group. She will now oversee TikTok’s global music business development initiatives.