Dave Ayers appointed Executive Vice President, A&R at Peermusic

The announcement was made this week by Mary Megan Peer, CEO of Peermusic, and Jamie Cerreta, President US and Canada, to whom Ayers will report directly.

In his new role, he will oversee the signing and development of talent, shaping creative strategy across Peermusic’s roster of artists, songwriters, and producers.

On Ayers’ promotion, Peer said: “Dave’s passion for finding, developing and nurturing talent is legendary. His deep experience, creative vision, and commitment to independent publishing make him a perfect fit for our team. I know our current writers and future signings will greatly benefit by working with him.”

Cerreta added: “I am so pleased to have Dave join us here at Peermusic. Dave and I have shared a long history together, and I’m proud to continue working with him.”

“He is an extraordinary A&R man who brings exceptional taste and a unique ability to build careers time and time again. His deep devotion to his writers makes him a perfect match for what Peermusic stands for and what we want to continue to foster.”

Jamie Cerreta, President US and Canada

Ayers commented: “I’m grateful and excited to be able to do what I do in a place that’s set a standard of bravery and excellence for nearly 100 years.”

“It’s all about finding and supporting truly special people—singular, tireless, and dedicated to creating work that connects and lasts.”

Dave Ayers as Executive Vice President, A&R

With over four decades of experience as a manager, publisher, and label A&R executive, Ayers has been launched and developed artists across multiple genres.

His career includes roles at Twin/Tone, Capitol Records, Chrysalis, and Big Deal Music Publishing—which he co-founded with Cerreta and others.

His past signings and collaborations include The Jayhawks, Ween, Soul Asylum, Bon Iver, TV on the Radio, St. Vincent, The Black Keys, Nathaniel Rateliff, Kamasi Washington, Sylvan Esso, and Pavement, among others.

Following the 2020 sale of Big Deal, Ayers served as Executive Vice President at Hipgnosis Songs, where his recent highlights included Model/Actriz and Cameron Winter/Geese.

This appointment aligns with Peermusic’s broader strategy to strengthen its global presence and creative leadership.

Notably, in 2023, Peermusic acquired Arctic Rights Management, one of Norway’s largest independent music publishers, further expanding its international reach.