Universal Music has announced the appointment of Dickon Stainer to the role of CEO at its UK business, taking over from David Joseph, who announced his departure from the company yesterday.
“Dickon has embraced an expansive musical worldview throughout his career, taking artists from a wide variety of genres and bringing them to audiences globally”, says overall Universal CEO Lucian Grainge. “He not only has deep experience in leveraging our worldwide organisation on behalf of our artists, but a track record that includes global commercial and creative artist successes and countless awards in many countries”.
In his most recent role at the major, as CEO of the Global Classics & Jazz division, Stainer oversaw labels in both Europe and the US. He has been a key player in the classical music industry for decades, mostly at Universal, with a brief stint at Warner Classics.
In his new job, he will oversee the recently revamped Universal Music UK business, which includes the Island EMI Label Group, Polydor Label Group, Decca Records and the newly formed Audience And Media Division, as well as Abbey Road Studios. He will also continue to be Chair of Global Classics & Jazz.
Commenting on his appointment, Stainer says it’s an “honour” to lead Universal Music UK, adding, “The depth of talent that we have at the company, coupled with our remarkable roster of artists, gives me tremendous confidence in what we can achieve together”.
He continues, “Having worked in both the international and domestic divisions of UMG, I know how central the UK is to the global music industry - a vital repertoire source that provides the world with great artists and great music. I can’t wait to get started”.
Joseph had been CEO of Universal Music UK for seventeen years. He told staff he was stepping down yesterday, with his immediate plans being very much outside the music industry as he heads to Kings College London to study religion and theology.
Grainge’s statement also briefly mentions Joseph. “I would also like to thank David Joseph for his many contributions”, he says. “He leaves with our gratitude”.