Universal Music Group (UMG) the world leader in music entertainment, has strengthened its presence in Africa through a new leadership to support and grow the continent’s domestic music ecosystems.
The company says this will also help in creating new opportunities for African talent to reach new audiences globally.
To help lead in the expansion, Sipho Dlamini has been promoted to CEO, Universal Music South Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa.
Dlamini will continue to oversee all of UMG’s operations within English-speaking Africa.
In his new role, Dlamini will continue to work closely with Adam Granite, UMG’s EVP, Market Development, to identify further opportunities for artists signed to Universal Music Africa to reach new audiences around the world, utilizing UMG’s unrivalled global network of industry-leading businesses spanning more than 60 countries worldwide.
In South Africa, Elouise Kelly has been appointed Chief Operating Officer, Universal Music South Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa. She will be based in Johannesburg and will report to Dlamini.
Kelly Joins UMG from global advertising and media agency Ogilvy, where she held the position of Managing Director, South Africa.
With a proven and award-winning background in branding, marketing, communication and commercial business strategy, she will play an integral role in the further expansion of Universal Music Africa and its operations and label divisions.
In addition, Chinedu Okeke has been named Managing Director, Universal Music Nigeria and will lead the development and expansion of UMG’s existing operations within Nigeria, and further English-speaking markets in West Africa. He will be based in Lagos, Nigeria and will report to Dlamini. Okeke joins UMG having established himself over the last decade, as a successful business and live-music entrepreneur. He is the founder of Eclipse Live – A Live entertainment company.
Sipho Dlamini said, “There has never been a more exciting time for African music around the world, as it continues to influence and inspire culture and creativity, whilst reaching a wider audience globally each day through streaming.”
