Vinyl Group has announced the appointment of Tahlia Phillips as Head of Publishing at Vinyl Media. Phillips, who joined Vinyl Media in 2025 following Vinyl Group's acquisition of Concrete Playground, brings 15 years of experience in editorial, creative, and commercial teams. Previously, she served as General Manager at Concrete Playground.

In her new role, Phillips will lead editorial strategy across Vinyl Media's owned and licensed publications. She will also oversee the expansion of local editorial teams and champion original content in Australia and New Zealand. "It’s a privilege to lead the exceptional editorial and content teams at Vinyl Media, home to some of Australia’s — and the world’s — most iconic media brands. As a tech business with a rapidly expanding media portfolio, we are uniquely positioned to lead the next era of publishing. In 2025, Vinyl Media will deliver ambitious audience growth, bold new content franchises, and unforgettable real-world experiences that deepen our connection with audiences in powerful, personal ways," Phillips stated.

In addition to Phillips' appointment, Chantelle Schmidt has been appointed as Editorial Lead for Refinery29. Schmidt has over 15 years of experience in publishing, podcasting, social, branded content, and digital strategy. She previously led branded and e-commerce content for Pedestrian Group's Australian publications, including Refinery29.

Vinyl Group has executed a licensing and representation deal to bring Refinery29 back to Australia. Vinyl Media, launched in February 2025 as Vinyl Group's new publishing house, aims to turn brands into cultural icons and function as a premium publishing and culture house. The company has acquired The Brag Media, Mediaweek, and Concrete Playground, and relaunched Refinery29 Australia.

The firm's local publications include The Music Network and Tone Deaf, and it represents brands like Rotten Tomatoes and Crunchyroll while its events business produces the Rolling Stone Awards and Mediaweek 100.

Vinyl Group CEO, Josh Simons, commented on the appointments, saying, "Tahlia has played a significant part in growing the Concrete Playground brand to where it is today, and her work with the business over many years speaks for itself. Her experience and leadership will be key as we grow our publishing footprint and deliver premium content that speaks to the passions of our audiences and the needs of our partners. Chantelle returns to Refinery29 with a deep understanding of the publication and its audience, and as part of our commitment to growing the title in Australia since our recent relaunch."