BMI has appointed Shannon Sanders as executive director for its Nashville creative team. Reporting directly to BMI’s vp of creative Clay Bradley, Sanders will be responsible for signing and developing talent and supporting the organization’s roster of songwriters and publishers.

In announcing Sanders’ appointment, Bradley stated, “Shannon has been an important source of advice and counsel for me since I joined BMI in March, and I’m thrilled that he will now be a key part of our creative team. He is a Nashville native who has embraced all genres of music throughout his career, and his accomplishments reflect the rich musical diversity of this city. It’s our job to represent the best talent Nashville has to offer, and Shannon’s voice and vision will be invaluable as we continue that mission.”

A 25-year music industry veteran, Sanders is a Grammy-, Emmy- and Dove Award-winning songwriter-producer. In addition to serving as artist India.Arie’s musical director for 20 years, he is the founder and original program director of WPRT (102.1 The Ville), Nashville’s classic soul and R&B radio station. A trustee for the Recording Academy, Sanders also works with various other organizations, including the National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM), the Association of Independent Music Publishers (AIMP), Nashville Music Equality (NME) and the Country Music Hall of Fame’s education committee.

“I am excited about my new role at BMI and inspired by Clay and his vision,” said Sanders. “As part of this tremendous creative team, I look forward to helping further the efforts of BMI in our songwriting community and beyond. Being a creator myself, I know the value of this organization. I’ve always been a champion for creators, and I consider it an honor to be able to offer support and facilitate opportunities for my fellow songwriters.”