Rob Potts International Exchange Program

This annual program honors the memory of Rob Potts, his passion for taking Country Music to the world and his significant contribution while serving on the CMA Board. This voluntary exchange program will select two recipients, one from the United States and one from Australia/New Zealand and allow them to work under the direction and guidance of CMA and its partners in Australia to learn firsthand how different aspects of the music business function through a series of internships, networking opportunities, and industry experiences. This program is not intended for an individual pursuing a career as an artist or songwriter.

PROGRAM OUTLINE & OPPORTUNITIES

Through a series of internships, along with additional networking opportunities, the recipients will benefit from a range of experiences in many different areas of the business, including, but not limited to the following:

  • Marketing/Digital
  • Media/Public Relations
  • Booking Agency
  • Artist Management
  • Record Labels
  • Publishing/Performing Rights Organization
  • Live Events/Stage Production
  • Radio
  • Video Production
  • Recording Studio

Each recipient will also be assigned a dedicated contact to guide them throughout the program. Recipients must be willing to capture weekly video diary entries to recap their experience during the program. Costs will be covered by the exchange program.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Two recipients will be selected, one from the United States and one from Australia/New Zealand. To qualify, individuals must meet the following criteria:

  • Must be a legal resident of the United States, Australia, or New Zealand and meet applicable visa requirements to be able to travel to the United States/Australia for the period of the program.
  • Must be a full-time student enrolled at a college/university OR emerging industry professional between the ages of 18 and 25 at the time of application.
  • Must be a current music industry professional OR have a strong interest in pursuing a career in the Country Music industry.
  • This program is not intended for an individual pursuing a career as an artist or songwriter.
  • Employees of CMA, Members of the CMA Board of Directors or their immediate family members are not eligible to apply. “Immediate Family” includes spouses, siblings, parents, and children.

APPLICATION NOW CLOSED

About Rob Potts

Celebrated Australian manager, promoter, Country Music champion and CMA Board Member Rob Potts’ career spanned more than 30 years. As CEO of his company Entertainment Edge, Potts helped open doors for Australian Country artists including Tommy Emmanuel, Morgan Evans and Keith Urban, in addition to serving as manager for Evans. His success in the touring of U.S. Country artists in Australia led to Potts establishing the CMC Rocks festival brand and forging a long-running partnership with Michael Chugg of Chugg Entertainment. Their flagship, CMC Rocks Queensland, is now the biggest Country Music festival in the Southern Hemisphere.