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Dickon Stainer promoted to global classical overseer role at Universal

By Andy Malt | Published on Tuesday 11 November 2014

Decca Records boss Dickon Stainer has been handed the additional role of Universal’s President and CEO of Global Classical. He will report into Universal Music Group International CEO Max Hole, who has previously overseen the company’s classical division.

Says UMG’s overall CEO Lucian Grainge: “Over the past fifteen years, I’ve had the great fortune to watch Dickon develop into a first-rate music executive with a unique ability to both manage artists and labels. In this new role he will be able to take advantage of the extraordinary opportunities the industry transformation offers to music’s greatest collection of classical labels and artists”.

Hole added: “I have really enjoyed getting closely involved in the classical business and with our artists, but as classical music transitions into the digital age we need to develop the business further and faster. Dickon will bring new energy and full time leadership to this commercially and culturally important part of Universal’s business. He is a rare combination of musician, A&R man and executive who is uniquely qualified for this new role”.

Stainer had something to say too. It was this: “It is a great privilege and responsibility to oversee the future and heritage of classical music at Universal Music. I look forward to working with our outstanding artists and my colleagues around the world to innovate and bring new audiences to this unique and diverse art form”.

Joining Stainer’s new management team is Graham Southern, who becomes Chief Operating Officer and Senior Vice President of Global Classics.