PRS appoints Google exec Ben McOwen Wilson as CEO

Announcing his appointment, Performing Right Society (PRS) for Music cited the breadth of experience McOwen Wilson “brings to the opportunities and challenges” facing the organisation and its members.

McOwen Wilson, who takes up the role on 12 October 2026, joins from Google Play, where he has served as EMEA Managing Director since 2022. Before that, he was YouTube’s Managing Director for the UK and Ireland. He has also served as the first Chair of the Royal Television Society Cambridge Convention from outside the traditional TV industry.

In his new role, McOwen Wilson will support the organisation's mission to track where music is used and collect royalties for artists.

The organisation stated: “As AI, gaming, digital platforms, and new forms of music consumption reshape the industry, he has spent the past 20 years building partnerships across complex digital ecosystems while working with rights holders, broadcasters, creators, and policymakers. The combination of strategic leadership, commercial experience, and creator advocacy makes him exceptionally well placed to help protect and grow the value of music for PRS members.”

Julian Nott, Chair of the PRS Members’ Council, emphasised: “Songwriters, composers, and publishers need a society working tirelessly to champion them and their rights. A society which embraces innovation and has the confidence to shape the future, not simply respond to it. Ben is an outstanding leader with all the skills necessary to guide PRS for Music through the many changes in the music industry and the wider media market.”

McOwen Wilson said: “In the age of AI and accelerated digital distribution, protecting the integrity and value of human creativity is our most urgent priority. My focus will be on ensuring PRS catalyses our members' success, ensuring they remain at the centre of a sustainable and growing global music ecosystem.”

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