Michael Smith promoted to EVP of Sony Music UK

Michael Smith has been appointed as Executive Vice President, Sony Music UK.

Smith has more than 25 years of experience of music and entertainment law and recently led the legal side of deals including Simon Cowell and Syco Entertainment’s long-term partnership extension, joint ventures with Black Butter and Insanity, the creation of Red Essential and the signing of 17-time BRIT Award winner Robbie Williams.

A qualified barrister, Smith began his career in private practice and spent ten years at media specialists Schillings.

In 1997 he was appointed Director of Legal & Business Affairs at Zomba Records Limited where he remained until it was purchased by BMG.

After a period with BMG Music Publishing as Vice President of International, Smith was named Senior Vice President of Legal & Business Affairs at Sony Music in 2006.

“Michael is one of the most talented executives in the music industry.”

Jason Iley, Sony Music UK

Major Sony artists he has recently led key renegotiations with include One Direction, Calvin Harris, Mark Ronson, Paloma Faith and The Script.

Jason Iley, Chairman and CEO, Sony Music UK, said: “Michael is one of the most talented executives in the music industry.

“His professionalism and legal skills are legendary. He has the huge respect of his colleagues, our artists and all of our partners.”  

“I would like to place on record my thanks to all my colleagues.”

Michael Smith, Sony Music UK

News of Smith’s promotion comes amid a flurry of promotions within Sony Music UK’s legal and business affairs team, with David Turnbull, Andy Young, Nick Kadrnka, Sacha Kilbey and Philippa Tandy all stepping up at the major. 

Michael Smith said: “I am very grateful to Jason and everyone at Sony Music for their support for myself and my team. I would like to place on record my thanks to all my colleagues – and congratulate them on their promotions.

“I am incredibly proud of their success and confident that the Sony Music UK Legal and Business Affairs department has few peers in the industry.”Music Business Worldwide