Industrial Strength: Musical Chairs w/e March 27

Sony/ATV hires new Communications VP

Music Week head of business analysis Paul Williams is to join Sony/ATV Music Publishing as its new Global VP of Communications, including Australia. Williams, who has worked on Music Week for close to 18 years, will officially join Sony/ATV – the world’s biggest music publisher – on April 14 and will report to Martin Bandier, Chairman & CEO of the company.

Sylvia Rhone named President of Epic Records in USA

One of the most powerful women in the global music industry, Sylvia Rhone has been named President of Epic Records USA. She was President of Universal Motown Records and previously Chairman/CEO of Elektra Entertainment Group. In 1990 Rhone was the first African American woman to head a major record company as CEO and President of Atlantic’s EastWest Records America. Her signings have included Missy Elliott, Busta Rhymes, Tracy Chapman, Jason Mraz, Akon, India.Arie, Erykah Badu and Lil Wayne.

Luke Woods exits ARIA

After three-and-a-half years in the role Communications Manager, Luke Woods will exit ARIA, PPCA and Music Rights Australia today. His replacement is expected to be announced in coming days.

New board members for SCALA

Adelaide’s SCALA (Songwriters, Composers And Lyricists Association Inc.) has a new board for 2014. It is made up of Bryan Foley (President), Clayton Werner (Treasurer) with Adrian Miller (FOOM Recording Coordinator), Kelly Beaumont (Planning, Grants), Edel Perth (Workshop Coordinator), Geoff Hastwell (Secretary), Simon Molloy and Anthony Stewart.

Genna Alexopoulos launches Super Duper

One time Shock publicist Genna Alexopoulos has launched her own PR firm Super Duper (super-duper.com.au). It’s currently working with EMI Australia (Papa vs Pretty), Island Australia (Chance Waters, The Cairos), Ten To Two Records (Chuck Ragan) and UK band Beaty Heart.

Pandora CTO steps down

Radio platform Pandora’s Chief Technology Officer Tom Conrad – whose beat covered Australia, US and New Zealand – stepped down after 10 years to take on an advisory role. Head of Engineering Chris Martin moves up.

Linda Dessau to head Melbourne Festival board

Former Family Court justice Linda Dessau, AM, was appointed new President of Melbourne Festival’s board of directors.