A sign of the times: the UK’s biggest label now has a dedicated ‘head of streaming’ – a new role created this year, and filled by Matt Allard, who’s been working within Universal Music UK’s digital team for the last three years. He’ll report to director of digital Paul Smernicki. “Given the growing importance of streaming and subscription to our artists and labels, this new dedicated approach is essential,” said chairman and CEO David Joseph. “Matt and his team will ensure that we can lead the market in how we work with our streaming partners, engaging many more music fans whilst innovating to bring new streaming services to market.” Separating streaming off from download partners – Allard has managed partners like iTunes in his previous role – is an interesting move, although one that may be reassessed in two or three years’ time, if streaming becomes the bulk of the digital music business, rather than a fast-growing sub-section.
Tools: platforms to help you reach new audiences
Tools: Kaiber
In the year or so since its launch, AI startup Kaiber has been making waves,…