There’s been a senior exec departure at Universal Music Group in the US: Mike Rittberg, who for the past year-and-a-half has acted as General Manager at jazz label Verve Records.
Rittberg joined Verve four years ago in a branding role, before stepping up to oversee the label’s operations, artist development and release schedule.
During his tenure, Interscope Geffen A&M was responsible for Verve’s sales, marketing and film and TV licensing, as Rittberg reported into Verve boss David Foster.
However, Foster left the building last month after UMG created Verve Label Group – encompassing its US classical labels – and appointed Danny Bennett as its President & CEO.
In a memo to staff obtained by MBW, Rittberg said:
What an amazing opportunity I’ve had this past year and half as GM of Verve. I’ve had the most amazing co-workers & staff (who have become dear friends) who were in the ‘foxhole’ daily with me, great artists and VERY supportive IGA (THANK YOU ALL!) . I’m grateful for the support and couldn’t have done it alone. Thank you!
I know I leave the label having done the best job I could for the Artists, Verve and UMG.
Please stay in touch as I hope we get the opportunity to work together again.
Best,
Mike Rittberg
Rittberg can be reached at Mike.Rittberg@yahoo.com.
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