The Board of Directors of the East Coast Music Awards has announced that it has parted ways with CEO Blanche Israël as St. John’s prepares to host this year’s awards ceremony only months away.
Late last year, an online petition was launched by local members, calling for “transparency and stability” from the organization.
The petition pointed to “long-standing contractors with deep institutional knowledge” being “let go” and “significant modifications” to the awards application process.
Israël, who took over the position last year, defended the changes, citing a need to review hiring practices.
Former CEO Andy McLean has been named to the position while efforts to recruit a new CEO are underway.