New Road For Exec. VP Of Detroit Jazz Festival In 2016

DETROIT (WWJ) - Cornell Batie, Exec. VP & COO of the Detroit Jazz Festival is parting ways with organization in the new year.

"I've been here for nine years and it's been great," says Batie, "I just think that every employment situation should be a win-win situation. I think that employee needs to represent the organization well - it needs to be a good fit for them and the organization - who that person is and what the organization needs to work well for them - and things change and that's not always a constant thing -- people change and what the organization wants to do change. Where the organization is now and looking to go and who I am it's just not the best fit anymore."

What's next?

There are some opportunities to explore and doing some soul searching.

Proudest moments?

"Having the opportunity to work with such a great group of indivduals who love it. Because everyone who supports this organization - they absolutely love the festival - they love what it's about," he said.

Memorable Event:

"I think the greatest colaboration that took place was the one with Common and Craig Riggins ... it definitely showed the diversity that could take place in jazz and how you can bridge all the genres of music into what jazz is about -- because jazz is about creativity