Universal Music has announced the promotion of Polydor co-President David Joseph to the role of CEO for Universal Music UK, reporting to Universal Music Group International boss Lucian Grainge.
Grainge himself as fulfilled the UK chief role in addition to his job as CEO of UMGI since 2005, so Joseph's job is essentially a new one. The chiefs of Universal's UK divisions, including Island, Mercury, Polydor and UCJ, will now report to Joseph. He will also retain his role as co-President of Polydor, meaning he'll be reporting to himself some of the time.
Confirming the appointment, Grainge told CMU: "David is a gifted music executive with exceptional creative instincts and a reputation for uncomplicated thinking and for honour. He has played a central role in building Polydor's UK market supremacy, developing a talented team which has continued to fuel this creative powerhouse".
He continued: "Universal Music UK benefited when David took additional responsibilities two years ago as President of Universal Music Operations. Today, the strength of the UK team and all our labels allows me to spend more time on international strategy. With David now advancing to UK Chairman, I will - as mandated by Universal Music Group Chairman/CEO Doug Morris - be able to concentrate more than ever on our international creative growth and A&R focus, and our overall business development".
Joseph added: "I'm inheriting a company which is full of optimism. There is creativity and success coming out of every team across Universal Music UK, and I am very flattered to be asked to work with all of them".