Longtime Mushroom Group Executive Dean McLachlan has announced his impending retirement after 30 years with the company.
McLachlan will depart Mushroom Music in December. However, he’ll remain with the Group as a consultant “in an advisory capacity” over the next three years.
McLachlan’s retirement comes after 43 years in the music industry. In a statement, he detailed watching Midnight Oil perform at a footy oval at the age of 15 and how that experience “resonated with me in a way I’ve never been able to shake off.” He then saw Split Enz at Festival Hall, and his decision was solidified: he left school at the age of 16 to pursue a life in music.
After three years working at Katie’s Cards and Records, McLachlan embarked on ten “incredible” years at EMI Records. Following a decade with the label, he went on to spend 30 years with “the greatest independent music company in the world, Mushroom.”
McLachlan went on to thank his colleagues, “both past and present,” who have shaped his career and as an individual. You can read his statement in its entirety below.
Mushroom’s Chief Executive, Matt Gudinski, and Mushroom Music’s Co-CEO, Linda Bosidis, both bade McLachlan farewell and shouted his praises.
Gudinski described McLachlan as one of the Group’s “greatest flagbearers for passion, work ethic, and what it means to be a Mushroom person.”
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He added that McLachlan’s level of knowledge – having been mentored by Michael Gudinski and Warren Costello – “will remain integral” to how the company continues to support its artists.
Bosidis said it’s “impossible” to overstate the impact that McLachlan has left on the company. She commented on the “vibe” he personifies and authenticity, both of which have drawn the attention of artists and fellow music industry figures.
You can read Gudinski and Bosidis’ statements below.
Dean McLachlan’s statement reads:
After 43 years in the music industry, I am announcing my decision to retire, with a deep sense of gratitude for the music and friendships that have shaped my life, and excitement for what lies ahead. I will be leaving Mushroom Music in December this year, however, I’ll continue to support Mushroom as a consultant in an advisory capacity over the next three years.
It all began at 15, standing front row at a Midnight Oil gig on a football oval. Something about that experience resonated with me in a way I’ve never been able to shake off. Not long after, I saw Split Enz at Festival Hall—and that was it. I was hooked. That spark pushed me to leave school at 16 and throw myself headfirst into the world of music.
I spent three informative years in retail at Katies Cards and Records, followed by 10 incredible years at EMI Records. Then came the dream of a lifetime: 30 wonderful years with the greatest independent music company in the world, MUSHROOM.
Along the way, I’ve had the privilege of working with extraordinary people. Artists (and their families), managers, promoters, agents, crews, producers, directors and journalists - so many talented and passionate individuals who inspire me daily. Some became friends and mentors; others were people I simply admired from afar. Cassandra Gracey and Mark Seymour have been long-time inspirations.
I’d like to acknowledge and thank the many colleagues both past and present I’ve worked with at EMI and across the Mushroom Group, particularly those whose contributions and shared history have influenced both my career and me personally.
One of the most defining chapters of my life followed the devastating passing of Michael Gudinski and Warren Costello. Their loss was a stark reminder that life doesn’t always play fair, and it taught me the importance of living with purpose, gratitude, and appreciation for every day.
For 30 years, I was humbled by the love and unwavering faith my dear friend and mentor Waz showed me. In the difficult period after his passing, I was incredibly fortunate to be supported and guided by John Watson and Belinda Leaver – two brilliant colleagues and friends whose care, encouragement, and generosity I will never forget.
I also want to acknowledge Matt & Cara Gudinski, who stepped into the immense responsibility of leading Mushroom after Matt’s father’s passing with strength, vision, and a deep respect for the company’s legacy.
I leave with lifelong friendships - some stretching back more than four decades - and an enormous sense of pride in being forever connected to Mushroom and our artists. These relationships and memories are, without question, the greatest achievements of my career.
Lastly, to the center of my world - the two shining lights of my life, Wendy & Charlie. Your understanding and patience have allowed me to dedicate myself fully to my passion, even when at times it must have been challenging to live with someone who lives, breathes, and dreams music. I am, and always will be, eternally grateful.
P.S. To our friends who have so kindly offered accommodation in London, Palo Alto, Darwin, Kilcunda, Smiths Lake, Nhulunbuy, Athens, Tenterfield, Los Angeles, Perth, Gili Islands, Karekare Beach, Hobart, Seaspray, Brisbane, Phillip Island, New York, Burradoo, Lake Eildon, Bali, Victor Harbour, Torquay, Port Douglas, Sydney, Robe, French Island, and Houston - Wendy and I are finally on our way!
Matt Gudinski said:
A few years ago, when we launched a new annual staff award to recognise the person who best embodies the energy and spirit of Mushroom, there was only one possible first recipient - Dean. For almost three decades, he has been one of our greatest flagbearers for passion, work ethic and what it means to be a Mushroom person.
He has helped shape the careers of so many remarkable artists in both the recording and publishing business - and having learned his craft under my father and Warren Costello, he is a student of two of the best in the industry.
That knowledge and dedication will remain integral to how we continue supporting our iconic artists as he moves into an ongoing consulting role with us. While this marks the end of one chapter, we're excited that Dean's connection with Mushroom will continue and we very much look forward to continuing to work with him in the years ahead. I cannot thank Dean enough for his dedication, commitment, and loyalty to Mushroom.
Linda Bosidis added:
It’s impossible to overstate the mark Dean's made. No one matches the passion, loyalty or the depth of relationships he’s built. A true music lover, he listens on repeat, buys the t-shirt, stands front row, drives to regional gigs no one else can find, with stamina to outlast half the crowd.
He brings the vibe and his authenticity draws artists and industry icons, not just out of respect but genuine affection. Dean is one of the most steadfast, incomparable and generous people you’ll ever meet. Our industry is better for having him.
