On January 14, 2026, the Country Music Association (CMA) announced that its long‑serving Chief Executive Officer, Sarah Trahern, will retire at the end of 2026, bringing to a close a transformative 12‑year tenure at the helm of one of country music’s most influential organizations. Trahern’s leadership has been widely credited with guiding the CMA through a period of sustained growth and elevated global prominence for the genre, as well as strengthening the association’s role as an advocate for the country music community at large.
Since assuming the role of CEO in 2014, Trahern steered the CMA through a range of initiatives that have helped broaden the reach of country music beyond its traditional geographic and demographic boundaries. Under her direction, the CMA expanded artist development programs, championed new revenue streams for artists and industry professionals, and intensified the organization’s focus on international engagement. Trahern’s tenure also saw enhancements to cornerstone CMA events, including the CMA Awards, which drew global audiences and helped spotlight country music’s diverse roster of talent on some of the world’s biggest entertainment stages.
Trahern’s retirement announcement was included in a broader strategic update from CMA leadership, underscoring the organization’s ongoing commitment to innovation and relevance in a rapidly evolving music business landscape. Even as she prepares to step down, Trahern will remain actively involved throughout 2026, overseeing key programming and events that are central to the association’s mission. These include the CMA Awards, professional development initiatives for emerging artists, and CMA Fest, among other high‑profile concerts, showcases, and industry gatherings that have become hallmarks of the country music calendar.
CMA leadership paid tribute to Trahern’s contributions, highlighting her dedication to expanding opportunities for artists, songwriters, and music professionals across the genre. They credited her with fostering partnerships that extended country music into mainstream cultural conversations and new international markets, from Europe to Asia and beyond. Her efforts to nurture community, advocate for equitable industry practices, and elevate underrepresented voices within country music have been cited as key aspects of her legacy. Colleagues praised her ability to balance tradition with forward‑looking strategy, ensuring that the genre’s deep roots were preserved even as its reach widened.
Trahern’s career in the music industry predates her time with the CMA, with decades of experience that include roles at state and regional music associations, festival organizations and artist advocacy groups. Her background in both nonprofit leadership and grassroots music initiatives informed her holistic approach to running the CMA, blending industry advocacy, member services and creative programming. During her tenure, membership in the CMA grew significantly, and the association’s influence became increasingly visible in policy discussions related to intellectual property, touring economics and digital rights — areas of growing importance to artists in the streaming age.
The announcement of Trahern’s upcoming retirement has prompted reflection within the country music community, with artists, executives and fans alike acknowledging her impact. Many pointed to milestones such as record‑breaking attendance at CMA Fest, the global broadcast reach of the CMA Awards, and the CMA’s expanded support for music education as defining achievements of her leadership. Musicians who have risen to prominence during Trahern’s tenure often expressed gratitude for the platforms and resources the CMA provided at critical early stages of their careers.
While celebrations of Trahern’s career are already underway, attention is also turning to the next chapter for the CMA. The association confirmed that a national search for her successor will begin soon, with the goal of identifying a leader capable of building on the foundation she helped establish. Industry watchers expect the search to attract candidates with a mix of strategic vision, industry experience and a deep understanding of country music’s evolving cultural and commercial context. The CMA’s board of directors affirmed its commitment to a thoughtful and transparent process, with input from members and stakeholders across the country music ecosystem.
As the CMA embarks on its 2026 programming and prepares for the transition in leadership, many see this period as an opportunity to reflect on the genre’s growth and chart a course for its future. Country music continues to evolve in sound, influence and audience, and the CMA’s role as both a steward of tradition and a catalyst for innovation remains central to its purpose. Trahern’s departure, while marking the end of a significant era, also signals a moment of renewal for the organization and the broader community it serves.
For now, Trahern’s focus remains on fulfilling her remaining responsibilities, ensuring a smooth transition and supporting the initiatives that have defined her time at the CMA. Her influence on the industry will likely be felt long after her retirement, as the programs, partnerships and cultural bridges she helped create continue to shape the trajectory of country music in the United States and around the world.