EMI announced another senior appointment on Friday, with Jeff Kempler - formerly COO of the major's US based Capitol division - becoming COO of the new super-division that is known as A&R Labels North America & UK, you know, the one being run by former Island man Nick Gatfield. Kempler, who previously reported to Capitol chief Jason Flom, will report to Gatfield in his new role.
Confirming Kempler's promotion, Gatfield told CMU: "Jeff has proven music business acumen and strong leadership skills, and he will be an excellent asset for our artists, our team and me. His relationships, experience, strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities will be extremely valuable to us as we build EMI's A&R activity".
Kempler himself said this: "EMI is reinventing the major label model and I am excited to be part of the company's efforts to transform the business. I look forward to working closely with Nick and all my colleagues at EMI to offer artists the best services in the world and to enable EMI to become the industry's most artist-friendly and consumer-focused music company".