Business Manager, Apple Music

Summary

The people here at Apple don’t just create products — they create the kind of wonder that’s revolutionized entire industries. It’s the diversity of those people and their ideas that inspires the innovation that runs through everything we do, from amazing technology to industry-leading environmental efforts. Join Apple, and help us leave the world better than we found it.

Come join the team helping to shape the future of music.

The Business Management team at Apple Music shapes the strategy, audience growth, and operational execution for Apple Music through four core functions: Content Business Strategy (driving content business strategy and roadmaps across streaming, radio, and transactional business areas), Platform Optimization (leveraging program management and data analysis to optimize content experiences and maintain platform integrity), Label Relations (managing day-to-day record label partnerships and release planning across Apple Music, iTunes, and Shazam), and Scaled Engagement (building automated systems, communication toolkits, and global frameworks for partner-facing teams).

About the role

We are seeking an experienced, hands-on Business Manager to join the Apple Music Business Management team. In this role, you will serve as the business lead, driving the vision, strategic roadmaps, and cross-functional execution for major platform initiatives. You will lead the development of business strategies, operational models, and platform enhancements that steer long-term growth and elevate the overall Apple Music ecosystem.

Working at the intersection of music, technology, and digital product strategy, you will be deeply embedded alongside product and engineering teams, operating within an environment of high accountability and distributed authority. Success requires the ability to lead and influence across Product, Design, Engineering, Marketing, and Music teams without direct organizational control—navigating ambiguity and translating complex business concepts into delivered customer experiences.

You’ll bring a rare combination of business acumen, product development fluency, and deep cultural insight into the music industry—understanding market fundamentals, monetization structures, and the evolving ways fans discover and support artists. You will own initiatives end-to-end, driving timelines with relentless personal commitment to ensure every detail is well executed.

Responsibilities

• Develop, align, and execute comprehensive business strategies and roadmaps for emerging fan engagement and business initiatives within Apple Music.
• Imagine and define future iterations of the digital "super fan" experience, identifying new ways for listeners to engage with, support, and access content from their favorite artists.
• Combine deep music industry knowledge (licensing, catalog dynamics, and monetization) with consumer insights to evaluate emerging business models and prioritize opportunities.
• Partner with Product and Design teams from concept through launch to establish business frameworks, define user journeys, and shape product definitions.
• Develop and implement audience growth, acquisition, and retention strategies to expand platform reach and content distribution.
• Partner with Product, Design, and Engineering teams to define business requirements, monetization mechanics, and operational frameworks for new platform features.
• Collaborate with Content, Editorial, and Marketing teams to design and execute impactful campaigns, cultural moments, and promotional launches.
• Drive major initiatives from inception to launch, taking ownership of delivery timelines, milestone tracking, and cross-functional momentum.
• Partner closely with Engineering and Program Management to ensure projects remain on schedule, proactively identifying dependencies and clearing roadblocks.
• Navigate organizational ambiguity, translating complex problems into clear, actionable paths forward for multidisciplinary teams.
• Establish clear KPIs, measure post-launch performance, and continuously optimize business models and user experience based on data and partner feedback.
• Manage expectations with leadership through regular performance updates, strategic recommendations, and executive briefs.

Minimum Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in business management, product development/management, digital commerce, or commercial strategy within the music, media, or tech industries.
• Clear understanding of music business fundamentals (licensing, royalties, label/distributor relations, digital monetization) paired with an intuitive grasp of artist-fan dynamics and fan culture.
• Proven track record of managing a commercial portfolio or business area, including financial modeling, P&L management, and revenue forecasting.

Demonstrated track record working directly within a software/digital product development lifecycle (preferably mirroring Apple's cross-functional model), with the ability to converse fluently with engineers and designers on technical trade-offs and user experiences.

• Demonstrated ability to own and drive complex initiatives from start to finish, managing timelines, holding partners accountable, and delivering on commitments under tight schedules.
• Proven success navigating matrixed organizations, aligning cross-functional partners (Product, Design, Engineering, Business), and driving consensus in ambiguous environments where accountability exceeds formal control.
• Exceptional cross-functional leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to be onsite (this role is an in-person, onsite position) and available to work some nights and weekends as needed.
• Direct experience handling sensitive and confidential information with integrity and discretion.
• Up to 15% + travel required; both domestic and international.

Preferred Qualifications

BA/BS degree required; MBA or equivalent advanced degree preferred.