Universal Promotes Max Hole For EMI Integration

The Universal Music Group has promoted London-based executive Max Hole to the role of Chairman and CEO of UMG International as the company looks to incorporate EMI's recorded music division.

Hole – a member of the company's Executive Board – will report to the Universal Group's Chairman and CEO Lucian Grange, who is looking to develop the company's executive management rung following last year's purchase. Effective immediately, Hole will be responsible for the company's activities outside of the United States as well as overseeing the company's classical business globally.

In a statement today Hole said, “There's no shortage of energy, innovation and creativity in Universal's companies around the world. I'm looking forward to working with new colleagues and artists from EMI, and integrating our two great companies successfully. 2013 will be an exciting year for all of us.”

Grainge added, “With our historic acquisition of EMI, there is no one better to lead our efforts outside the United States. I've had the pleasure of knowing him for more than three decades, and not only is he one of the most experienced, accomplished executives in our business, he is also a true music man.”

Hole joined the company in 1998 as Senior Vice President, Marketing and A&R, before stints as Executive VP and CEO UMG International in 2010. Before Universal he spent 16 years with Warner Music UK. During his time at Universal he has helped developed relationships with Taylor Swift and The Voice.