LONDON (CelebrityAccess) – Sony Music UK has announced the immediate effective appointment of Azi Eftekhari as Chief Operating Officer. Azi will report to Jason Iley (Chairman and CEO, Sony Music UK & Ireland) and will be responsible for the company’s operational areas, including Commercial Group and help lead the business growth strategy.
Eftekhari brings twenty years of experience to the role and joins Sony Music following two years as Co-President of Universal Music’s Catalog Division, where she was responsible for global artists including The Beatles, Elton John, Amy Winehouse, The Rolling Stones and The Spice Girls.
Before that, Eftekhari was Head of Label Relations at YouTube, overseeing the launch of YouTube Music across Europe and brokered the first deal of its kind to make YouTube the official digital partner of The BRIT Awards. She previously co-ran a creative agency, Remedy Inc., drawing on her extensive expertise in record labels, artist management and digital platforms. There, she worked on culturally impactful projects in music, theatre and brands.
Iley said, “Azi has a depth of experience straddling the worlds of music, tech and culture combined with commercial acumen, and I am delighted that she is joining the team.”
Eftekhari said: “I’m so grateful to Jason for his faith in me and the chance to join the brilliant team at Sony Music. He’s built an exceptional, future-facing company, and I look forward to playing a part in continuing to champion the incredible roster of artists. In this rapidly changing marketplace, there are many exciting opportunities to harness, and I can’t wait to help drive the business into the next chapter.”
Eftekhari began her music career working with Iley at Mercury Records as Director of Digital and Publicity. She was instrumental in campaigns for artists, including U2, Justin Bieber, Rihanna, and Chase & Status. She has also served as a board member for the Official Charts Company and the Entertainment Retailers Association.
