Sony Music UK has made a significant leadership appointment with the naming of Azi Eftekhari as its chief operating officer. This move is set to have a profound impact on the company's operations and growth.

Uniting Music, Tech, and Commerce with Azi Eftekhari

Experience and Expertise

Azi Eftekhari brings an impressive two decades of experience to her new role at Sony Music UK. Having served as co-president of Universal Music Recordings, she managed global icons such as The Beatles, Elton John, Amy Winehouse, The Rolling Stones, and The Spice Girls at the catalogue division. Her tenure at YouTube as head of label relations was also crucial, where she spearheaded the launch of YouTube Music across Europe and secured a landmark partnership with The BRIT Awards. This demonstrated her ability to innovate at the intersection of music and technology. Additionally, she co-led Remedy Inc., a creative agency involved in projects across music, theatre, and branding.Before her current positions, Eftekhari began her career at Mercury Records, collaborating with Jason Iley as director of digital and publicity. She played a key role in campaigns for artists like U2, Justin Bieber, and Rihanna. Her leadership extended beyond individual companies as she served on the boards of the Official Charts Company and the Entertainment Retailers Association, highlighting her influence within the broader music industry.

Shaping the Growth Strategy

Reporting directly to Jason Iley, chairman and CEO of Sony Music UK & Ireland, Azi Eftekhari will oversee key operational areas, including the label's Commercial Group. Her role will be pivotal in shaping the company's overall growth strategy. Iley expressed confidence in Eftekhari's "depth of experience straddling the world of music, tech and culture combined with commercial acumen." Azi, in turn, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to work with Iley. She stated, "He's built an exceptional, future-facing company and I look forward to playing a part in continuing to champion the incredible roster of artists. In this rapidly changing marketplace, there are many exciting opportunities to harness, and I can't wait to help drive the business into the next chapter."This appointment is expected to bring new perspectives and drive the company forward in an increasingly competitive music industry. With Azi Eftekhari's diverse background and expertise, Sony Music UK is well-positioned to navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities ahead.