Audio Network, the production music house with more than 90,000 pre-cleared tracks on offer, has today announced the appointment of Chris Blakeston to the role of CEO.
Blakeston, who previously held the role of COO at Audio Network, will take up the position with immediate effect.
He succeeds Audio Network Co-founder and CEO, Robert Hurst, who will continue to serve on Audio Network’s Board of Directors and work closely with the company, focusing on its global growth and acquisition strategy.
Andrew Sunnucks will also continue in his role as Chairman of the Board of Directors, working closely with the music team.
Blakeston began his career at Audio Network as Head of Sales in 2008.
He became part of the senior management team in 2012, taking up the role of Deputy Managing Director before moving into the role of COO in 2014.
Prior to joining Audio Network, Blakeston headed up Getty Images video division across EMEA.
Chris Blakeston, CEO Audio Network said, “Audio Network is an incredible business and I’m both proud and excited to lead the company as it enters its next phase of growth. I would like to thank Robert for the outstanding job he’s done for over a decade, delivering many consecutive years of profitable growth and building a culture at the company that has delivered the highest standards of music content and customer service.”
Robert Hurst founded Audio Network with Andrew Sunnucks in 2001. Under his leadership, Audio Network has grown at an average CAGR in excess of 40% per annum, becoming an award winning global music group. Prior to co-founding Audio Network, Hurst worked in music publishing with Boosey & Hawkes, building upon his earlier commercial experience with PriceWaterhouse, Cable & Wireless Plc and the media group Pearson Plc.
Robert Hurst said: “Since its incorporation in July 2001 Audio Network has grown organically from a bootstrapped start-up into a profitable worldwide music company. Chris and his management team will have primary accountability for managing the group’s operations worldwide whilst driving further organic growth opportunities both domestically and internationally.
“I now look forward to working with Chris and our Board on strategic projects and to evaluate potential acquisition growth opportunities.”
The Audio Network Group continues to be majority owned by its Founders, Management and Composers.Music Business Worldwide
