Olesen announcement, finally

HOW SWEDE IT IS: Months after the fact, Epic has gotten around to announcing that Erik Olesen has been named SVP Promotion and Strategy, reporting to COO Mark Shimmel. In other words, he’s the head promo dude. “It’s essential to have a seasoned promo strategist on the Epic team,” said Shimmel. “Erik is extremely knowledgeable and has a vast network of contacts in the radio community to provide focus for a full roster of artists.” Commented Olesen, “This is an incredible opportunity for me to work once again with L.A. Reid, who is the best A&R person and has tons of great music coming. I also look forward to working with Mark Shimmel, Benny Pough, Jacqueline Saturn and the entire Epic team.” Olesen previously worked with Reid at IDJ, where he served as SVP Promotion. Sounds like a long-term bromance to us. (3/2a)