London, April 24th 2006: Universal Music Group International chairman and ceo Lucian Grainge has extended the responsibilities of Polydor co-President David Joseph to include overseeing Universal Classics & Jazz and UMTV as well as the launch of Universal Music UK’s new television production arm.

Joseph’s major promotion to President, Universal Music Operations reporting to Grainge is effective immediately. In addition to his ongoing role as co-President at the helm of Polydor, Joseph now oversees the two frontline companies Universal Classics & Jazz and UMTV (the direct TV and compilations business of Universal Music UK). Also reporting to Joseph will be Universal Music UK’s new television production division, further details of which will be announced shortly.

Polydor, Island and Mercury continue to report directly to Grainge.

Joseph’s promotion is a continuation of Grainge’s realignment of Universal Music UK’s senior management team following his appointment as Chairman and ceo of Universal Music Group International in July 2005. In the past nine months expanded responsibilities have been announced for Executive Vice-President Clive Fisher and Commercial Director Brian Rose.
The promotion of David Joseph, 37, comes after eight years at Universal. He joined Polydor in 1998 as general manager of Polydor UK (PUK) before moving up to become joint managing director of Polydor alongside Colin Barlow in February 2002. Joseph last year became a member of the BPI Council following two years on the Brits committee. In his new role as President of Universal Music Operations he will continue to be based within Polydor.
Lucian Grainge says: “Since David joined me at Polydor in 1998, he has continued to grow into an exceptional record man. He will make a great impact and contribution to the businesses within the UK group that he now has additional responsibility for managing. He thoroughly deserves this promotion.”
David Joseph says: “This is a fantastic opportunity. As well as taking Polydor to the next level, I want to put my energy into supporting the incredible teams at Classics & Jazz and UMTV to build on their success, and above all to break new artists in every genre.”