Mitch Ballard Named Sr. Director, Creative For BMI Austin Office

Mitch Ballard

Mitch Ballard has been named Senior Director, Creative at BMI’s Austin office, effective immediately. In this role, he will be responsible for providing service to existing BMI affiliates in Texas, signing new talent, and providing enhancement for the already vibrant songwriting community in Austin. Ballard reports to Jody Williams, VP, Creative, Nashville and Mason Hunter, AVP, Creative, Nashville.

“With a strong background in music and tech, native Texan Mitch Ballard is the perfect fit to head our new Austin office,” said Williams. “He is a proven leader who really understands the creative culture of Austin and the songwriter’s contribution to the fabric of Texas music. We look forward to Mitch’s contribution to BMI’s success as we embark on this new adventure.”

The news of Ballard’s hiring comes on the heels of BMI and Governor Greg Abbott announcing that BMI would be expanding its presence in Texas by opening its first Creative Office in Austin. The new office will allow BMI to work directly with talented songwriters and emerging artists in the Austin music community.

Ballard’s career spans over 25 years, beginning as an on-air talent in radio and television. He spent 16 years in the music business as a tour manager for major national acts. Prior to joining BMI, he utilized his background in the music industry to create early web-based applications for music booking agencies as well as a system to manage concert tours for major artists. Most recently, he started a full-service web development firm, DevDigital, in Nashville.

Ballard received a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism from the University of North Texas.