Independent digital licensing hub Merlin has promoted Charlie Lexton to the newly created role of Chief Operating Officer, while announcing a number of new hires.

Lexton, who moves up from his previous role as Chief Commercial Officer & General Counsel, will continue to lead Merlin’s licensing efforts with existing and new digital partners. His expanded remit also includes management of the firm's burgeoning data analytics practice.

Merlin CEO Jeremy Sirota said: “Charlie is part of Merlin’s founding team and has been pivotal to Merlin’s success. His promotion to COO ensures he remains central to our future. In the current circumstances, I think that continuity is especially important, with digital revenues such a lifeline to independent music. Charlie’s long-standing commercial expertise will enable our members to adapt and thrive in these challenging times.”
Lexton oversees a London-based team that includes Ryan McWhinnie (who has been promoted to Senior Director, Business & Legal Affairs) and Marta de la Hoz (Head of Data Analytics), plus new hires Shrina Patel (Director, Business & Legal Affairs), and Katie Eckett (Manager, Business & Legal Affairs).