UMG INTERNATIONAL SHOWS MAX HOLE LOTTA LOVE

No relation to Courtney Love, Hole is currently EVP for UMGI, and President of the company’s Asia Pacific region. He will take up his new duties on July 1, assuming responsibility for UMGI’s central functions at its London headquarters, and for the operations of UMGI territories and regions worldwide.

Universal Music U.K. Chairman/CEO David Joseph and Universal Music France, Mediterranean, South America and Middle East President Pascal Negre will continue to report to Grainge.

Commented Grainge: “No one is better suited to lead UMGI than Max Hole. He’s been an independent artist manager, record producer, A&R head, company managing director and, since 1998, one of Universal Music’s most senior, accomplished executives. We first met in this business 30 years ago, so I’m delighted and gratified that we’ll continue to work together, focusing on breaking artists, driving our digital music business with innovation and imagination, and delivering success. Or else, I turn the lights off, capece?”

Added Hole: "I have spent the last 12 years at Universal Music and am very happy to have played my part in helping Lucian build UMGI into what it is today. We work closely and understand each other. I am very excited at the prospect of continuing our partnership to build opportunities for our artists, for music fans and for our company. Just don't call me Bung."

Hole joined UMGI as Senior VP Marketing and A&R, advancing to EVP in 2004. He later added responsibility for UMGI’s Digital, Strategic Marketing and Commercial Affairs divisions, and for Asia Pacific and Nordic/Central & Eastern Europe. Previously, he spent 16 years at Warner Music UK.

Hole’s appointment follows that of former UMGI head Grainge as UMG CEO. Grainge will take up his new post on January 1, 2011, succeeding Doug Morris, who will remain as Chairman. and will relocate to N.Y. July 1. During these six months, Morris and Grainge will act as co-CEOs.