"We're implementing a plan that I drafted and recommended to our GMA Board last week, and we all agree this is a fiscally responsible direction to go," Styll said in an e-mailed statement Wednesday night. "We've been tightening our belts for some time in this economy, and now we're at a point where I think it's wise to take my own salary off the books. I remain a permanent board member of the GMA and look forward to continuing our work.
"These are tough times for everyone, and our industry and GMA membership are no exceptions. Meanwhile, there's so much to be positive about — the popularity of our music form, the dream of our future Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville — but we have to ride out this economic storm a while further."
Styll had shepherded the GMA and its affiliate organization, the Christian Music Trade Association, through a rocky period, as the music industry's economic shift took a toll on funding for both organizations, and attendance at the group's annual GMA Music Week dropped sharply earlier this year. The GMA also produces the multi-genre GMA Dove Awards.
The GMA has already had significant staff reductions this year.
"We are dealing with the realities of our economy, and we're implementing a plan that will make the association a volunteer-driven organization with some staff support," said Ed Leonard, current chairman of the GMA board. "I can't thank John Styll enough for all he's done for us over the years in the CEO capacity, and I look forward to working with him in his board capacity."
Investor Report: Auctions a Growing NicheWarner Music Group Corp. expands Nashville operations
