Island Records has announced that Jackie Winkler will now report directly to the label’s Co-CEOs, Imran Majid and Justin Eshak, in her newly elevated role. Winkler will assume leadership of the A&R department, where she will spearhead artist signings and oversee creative development for the label’s roster.
Winkler, who joined Island Records in 2015 as A&R Director and was promoted to Vice President of A&R in 2022, is credited with signing Sabrina Carpenter in 2020. Her efforts have been pivotal in Carpenter’s career, including the success of the artist’s album Short n’ Sweet. The album topped charts in fifteen countries, including the US and UK, and features two No. 1 hits on the Hot 100, “Espresso” and “Please Please Please.”
In addition to her work with Carpenter, Winkler has been a crucial figure in the careers of Grammy-nominated artists such as Demi Lovato, Keshi, and Lauren Spencer Smith, guiding them to multiplatinum achievements.
Winkler began her career at Warner Records, where she advanced from intern to A&R manager by 2011. At Warner, she was responsible for discovering and signing Andra Day, an artist whose accolades include an Academy Award nomination, Grammy Award, and Golden Globe Award.
“Jackie has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership and A&R expertise,” said Imran Majid and Justin Eshak, Co-CEOs of Island Records. “Her collaborative approach, innovative vision, and unwavering dedication make her the ideal candidate to lead our A&R department. We are excited to see her continue to shape the future of music at Island Records.”
Expressing her enthusiasm, Winkler stated, “I am profoundly grateful to Imran and Justin for their continued trust and support as I step into this new role. Their backing has been instrumental in both my personal development and our department’s successes. I am eager to lead our talented team and push the boundaries of what we can achieve together.”