UMG International Chairman/CEO Max Hole steps down

Max Hole, Chairman and CEO of Universal Music Group International, has stepped down from his roles due to ill-health, effective immediately.

In his role, regional heads including Australia and New Zealand President George Ash reported to him. Hole visited Australia many times as part of his duties. Regional heads outside the US will now report to UMG chairman and CEO, Lucian Grainge.

Hole’s position became in doubt when, in January, he suffered some memory loss after contracting encephalitis. Obviously he couldn’t continue in his roles, the company said in a statement. But he is expected to remain involved in Universal Music on a project-by-project capacity.

Hole said: “I have loved working at Universal, the best record company in the world. Lucian is an extraordinary person, both an exceptional creative and business executive for whom I have great affection. We have known each other for a very, very long time and I’m so glad we remain friends.”

According to Grainge, “Max Hole is one of the most talented and accomplished executives to have ever worked in the music business, with an undying passion for music. He has been one of our industry’s most effective champions, opening new markets and creating opportunities for artists and fans everywhere. Max’s contributions to Universal will be forever a part of the fabric of this company and our industry, and he leaves with our deepest gratitude and respect.”

Hole started out as a record producer and artist manager. In 1982 he joined Warner UK as A&R manager, and the founding MD of East West Records.

He shifted to UMPGI in 1998 when he was offered the SVP, Marketing and A&R role. In 2004, he was promoted to EVP and through time, took a global role (including the Asia-Pacific) for digital, strategic marketing and commercial affairs. He was became COO of UMGI in 2010 and Chairman and CEO in 2013.

In 2015 he was awarded Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the Queen’s 2015 Birthday Honours List for his service to the music industry.