Sarah Trahern, CEO of the Country Music Association (CMA), has announced her decision to retire at the end of 2026, marking the conclusion of an extraordinary tenure during a pivotal time for the format and industry.

Taking the helm in 2014, Trahern has advanced the mission of heightening the awareness of country music and supporting its ongoing growth domestically and abroad.

Under her leadership, CMA has deepened its commitment to its members – artists, songwriters, touring personnel and all professionals across the creative and business sectors – ensuring the association remains grounded in service to the people who work in the country music industry.

The association’s flagship television properties, including the “CMA Awards, “ “CMA Fest” and “CMA Country Christmas,” have not only become globally recognized as cultural events that have played a role in music discovery, providing a platform to showcase talent and connect fans with the music that defines the genre.

“Leading the Country Music Association has been the privilege of my career,” states Trahern in the announcement. “I am incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished together in service of this industry and its people, and deeply grateful for the community that makes Country Music what it is. After much reflection, I’ve made the decision to retire and embrace this next chapter of life – one that allows me to remain connected to this industry in ways that continue to inspire me, while also creating space for the people and moments that matter most to me, including time with my husband, Wayne, getting outdoors and simple nights at home with our dog, Riley.”

Trahern built her reputation around people – developing membership initiatives and industry programs to meet the changing needs of the community. She expanded investments and coordinated industry support in response to COVID-19, natural disasters and ongoing mental health challenges. At the same time, CMA has strengthened its global engagement by strengthening connections in key international markets.

A personal passion, Trahern reinforced CMA’s commitment to music education through the organization’s nonprofit arm, the CMA Foundation, where she serves as President. To date, the CMA Foundation has invested more than $30 million in research-backed programs that expand access, empower music educators and create opportunities for students. The program is supported though the participation of artists and the community with a portion of proceeds from CMA Fest earmarked for music education initiatives nationwide.

Prior to joining CMA, Trahern built a distinguished career spanning television, media, and the music industry. She held senior roles at C-SPAN and The Nashville Network (TNN) and later served as General Manager of Great American Country (GAC). Since moving to Nashville more than 30 years ago, she has been a central figure in the shaping of the format.

Her influence has been widely recognized, including being named one of Nashville Business Journal’s Most Admired CEOs and receiving Billboard’s Country Power Players “Executive of the Year” honor in 2017. In 2024, she was honored with the Bob Kingsley Living Legend Award by the Grand Ole Opry, among many other accolades.

Trahern will remain fully engaged in her role as CEO until the end of 2026, working closely with the Board and senior leadership to guide the CMA into its next era. As the organization prepares for Trahern’s departure, the Board of Directors has formed a search committee and retained an independent executive search firm, Buffkin Baker, to facilitate a comprehensive process to identify her successor and ensure a thoughtful and seamless transition. Additional details regarding the search, including how and when potential candidates may be considered, will be announced in February.

“While we will deeply miss Sarah’s leadership, we are excited to carry forward the legacy she has established,” added Jay Williams, Co-Head and Partner, WME, and CMA Board Chairman. “Sarah leaves behind an indelible mark on both the Country Music Association and the broader industry. Her influence has shaped not only CMA but the future of Country Music itself.”