Joan Sullivan
Joan Sullivan is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Kingdom Records Inc., a thriving music and entertainment company she has led for over two decades. Under her stewardship, the company expanded to include three additional imprints—Chicago Creed Music Group, Urban Creed Music, and Indie Chart Music—positioning her organization as a beacon for Gospel, Hip-Hop, and R&B artists seeking a supportive and artist-driven platform. Her leadership also extends into film production through her venture, Beyond The Praise Production LLC, showcasing her multifaceted engagement in both music and media.
Before founding Kingdom Records, Joan cultivated a strong financial and business acumen as a Vice President at Citigroup following her early experience in banking at First National Bank of Chicago. She pivoted from the banking sector to launch her music business with roots in her church community, guiding Kingdom Records to national recognition. Her contributions to the entertainment field have been acknowledged through her inclusion in Marquis Who’s Who and her active roles with the Recording Academy and the Chicago Urban Music Film Festival Organization.
Beyond her executive work, Joan is deeply committed to mentorship, education, and civic engagement. She leads seminars and consults with emerging artists and industry professionals, sharing her expertise in artist development and business strategy. She is equally dedicated to service—supporting causes such as cancer research and her local faith community—and is a recognized award-winner in documentary film and gospel music, embodying the values of leadership, integrity, and community impact.
• DePaul University - BS
• WEMADE Honors - M.A.D.E. (Make A Difference Everywhere)
• Grammy Awards Recording Academy
• Business Ministry at Valley Kingdom Ministries International
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a deep passion for music, unwavering dedication to my craft, and the ability to build meaningful industry relationships over time. My most notable achievement has been contributing to multiple Gold and Platinum-certified albums, a reflection of both creative excellence and commercial impact. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with several iconic Artists including Shekinah Glory Ministry and the legendary Whispers which has further shaped my understanding of the music business and elevated my professional trajectory.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I received was to let purpose lead profit. When your work aligns with your calling, excellence follows naturally. That mindset guided my transition from corporate leadership into the music industry and continues to shape how I lead Kingdom Records.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Stay rooted in who you are. When your identity is secure, the noise of the industry won’t shake you. Let purpose guide your decisions, and remember that success doesn’t require compromising your values.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in our field is navigating an industry that’s constantly shifting beneath our feet — from how music is consumed to how artists are developed and monetized. Streaming, social media, and new media formats have changed access, but they’ve also made it harder for artists to stand out and build sustainable careers without the right infrastructure and strategy.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide both my professional and personal life are mentorship, service, and integrity. Being a mentor is deeply meaningful to me—I believe in uplifting others, sharing knowledge, and creating space for growth and opportunity. My passion for community service also plays a central role in my life. I’m committed to giving back, building strong connections, and making a lasting impact through meaningful contributions to the communities I serve. These values not only define who I am but also drive the purpose behind everything I do.
Locations
Kingdom Records, Inc. Office
14234 John Humphrey Drive, Orland Park, IL, 60462