Jono Harrison Appointed As General Manager Of Sound Story

Sound Story

Australian communications and reputation consultancy firm Sound Story has revealed a major move today, appointing Jono Harrison as the company’s General Manager.

With nearly two decades of experience in media, music, technology, and culture, Harrison offers a rare combination of skills, making him an ideal General Manager at Sound Story.

Harrison was recently the GM of Media and Audience at Universal Music Australia, and before then spent five years at Spotify AU/NZ, was an Executive Producer at triple j, and led the radio and streaming strategy at Mushroom Group. Additionally, Harrison advises the Centre for Arts, Sports and Technology on culture, innovation and policy.

In his new role, Harrison will work closely with Sound Story’s Managing Partner, Jake Challenor, as well as Managing Partner Brian Lawlor, Communications Director Jane Elliott and Head of Corporate Communications Zanda Wilson.

 “Having worked client-side with Sound Story, I’ve seen firsthand how the team operates — strategically sharp, deeply connected to the industries they work in, and genuinely trusted by clients,” Harrison commented in a statement. “That’s exactly why the business has grown so quickly, and I’m excited to help lead the next phase of growth and bring my experience to clients.

Harrison continued, “Sound Story really is in the middle of it all. They operate at the intersection of music, media, technology and policy — where the conversations and decisions shaping the next decade are happening. I’m excited to work with Jake, Brian, Jane, Zanda and the broader team to help build the next phase of the business.”

Jake Challenor added, “Jono’s appointment marks a step-change in how we support our clients, lifting the level of senior counsel and capability we provide as they navigate growth, change and increasing complexity – bolstering our ability to deliver even sharper strategy and impact.

“Sound Story’s clients are operating in a world where media, culture, technology and policy are converging faster than ever. Jono has sat inside all of it – from national broadcasters to global streaming platforms – and understands how audiences actually engage today.

“Ultimately, that means stronger outcomes for the brands and leaders we work with across the creative industries.”

In addition to Harrison’s appointment, the Sydney office has expanded with the hire of Kiana Harvey as Senior Publicist and Maddie Koczanowski promoted to Operations & Projects Lead in April.

The company has also grown its footprint across Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Southeast Queensland. Challenor said of the developments, “We’re building a business that reflects where our clients are heading, not where the industry has been.

“This is about investing in senior talent, strengthening our systems and continuing to innovate, so we can deliver deep work that cuts through and stands up over time.”