Downtown Music Publishing has promoted Roberto Neri to Executive Vice President, U.K., and Head of European Business Development for its parent company, Downtown Music Holdings.
In this dual role, Neri will lead broader acquisition and expansion opportunities in the region while continuing to represent Downtown Music Publishing’s interest in the U.K., and maintain Downtown’s relationships with collective management organizations. He will continue to report directly to CEO Justin Kalifowitz.
“Roberto has been instrumental in bringing first-rate songwriters, producers and iconic catalogs to Downtown, while simultaneously supporting the growth of our global business and serving as a key ambassador for Downtown in the U.K. music publishing community. I’m thrilled that he’s taking on this expanded leadership role with our broader group and can’t think of anyone better suited as we continue to invest within the region,” said Downtown Music Holdings CEO Justin Kalifowitz.
“Roberto has been instrumental in bringing first-rate songwriters, producers and iconic catalogs to Downtown, while simultaneously supporting the growth of our global business and serving as a key ambassador for Downtown in the U.K. music publishing community.”
Justin Kalifowitz, Downtown
In the past two years, Neri has led signings with numerous high-profile songwriters and producers, including Saltwives, the British writer-producer duo behind major global hits (“Remind Me To Forget” – Kygo ft. Miguel, “Dusk Till Dawn” – Zayn ft. Sia).
Neri also led the acquisition of Salli Isaak Music including the works of U.K. hitmakers Jimmy Napes, who is behind much of the Sam Smith catalog, and Paloma Faith.
Neri recently drove a partnership between Downtown and Faber Music, home to songs from the Cats Musical.
“I’m excited and truly honoured to take on this new role within Downtown Music Holdings. It is an exciting time for the company, and I’m grateful to Justin for his continued support. The UK and Europe continue to be incredibly important markets for both creators and consumers of music, and I’m eager to help shape and execute our ongoing expansion,” said Neri.
Overseeing Downtown’s activity in the U.K. and other European territories, Neri joined Downtown in 2015 through the firm’s acquisition of Eagle-i Music.
In addition, Neri is an elected board director at PRS for Music, PPLPRS Ltd, and the Music Publishers Association. He has also been instrumental in the company’s development and implementation of its multi-territory licensing strategy.Music Business Worldwide
