Jason Iley's Sony Music U.K. has given its SVP of Legal & Business Affairs, Michael Smith, a big new title in Executive Vice President of the company. The appointment is followed by a number of personnel changes in the department Smith leaves behind.

Smith, a qualified barrister, started his career in the music industry in 1997 as Director of Legal & Business Affairs at Zomba Records. After it was purchased by BMG, Smith was named VP of International at BMG Publishing before leaving for Sony in 2006.

During his time at the label, Smith has played a pivotal role in a number of deals, including the six-year extension of Simon Cowell and SYCO Entertainment's partnership, JVs with Black Butter and Insanity, and the acquisition of Essential Music & Marketing to form Red Essential. He also played a part in the recent signing of Robbie Williams.

Said Iley: “Michael is one of the most talented executives in the music industry. His professionalism and legal skills are legendary. He has the huge respect of his colleagues, our artists and all of our partners.”

In other personnel news, Andy Young has been promoted to VP of Legal and Business Affairs for RCA and SYCO, Nick Kadrnka is now Director of Legal and Business Affairs, CMG, Sacha Kilbey is Director of Legal and Business Affairs, Columbia and Philippa Tandy is Director of Legal and Business Affairs, Sony Labels.

Smith added: “I am very grateful to Jason and everyone at Sony Music for their support for myself and my team. I would like to place on record my thanks to all my colleagues—and congratulate them on their promotions. I am incredibly proud of their success and confident that the Sony Music U.K. legal and business affairs department has few peers in the industry.”