SYDNEY, AUS (CelebrityAccess) – The Orchard has named Blake Rayner as GM of the company’s Australia and New Zealand business.
In this role, Rayner will oversee The Orchard’s day-to-day operations in Australia and New Zealand, including artist and label management, acquisitions, physical and digital retail relations and regional strategy. Rayner will also foster and maintain relationships with key local labels and artists in the area.
He will report to Colleen Theis, COO, The Orchard, as well as work closely with Denis Handlin AO, Chairman & CEO, Australia & New Zealand and President, Asia, Sony Music Entertainment.
“Blake joining as GM of Australia and New Zealand signifies a new period of investment and focus for The Orchard in this growing market,” Theis said. “He has a wealth of experience across the industry and clearly understands our vision. As head of our Sydney-based team, Blake will expand the local expertise with other key hires to round out our service offering.”
“I am beyond excited to join the team,” Rayner added. “The Orchard is positioned for growth in Australia and New Zealand and has an impressive global network that most labels simply do not have access to. I look forward to signing incredible artists, building a great local services team and continuing the strong relationships The Orchard has with our artists and label partners here and abroad.”
Rayner joins The Orchard after holding a tenure as the Head of International and A&R at Dew Process Recordings, where he signed and worked with artists such as London Grammar, Tkay Maidza, Bloc Party and Little May. Simultaneously at Secret Sounds, Rayner developed successful touring relationships with artists such as Halsey, Maggie Rogers and Aurora. Rayner got his start in the music industry as a director of Hello Pavement Music & Artist Management.
