Azi Eftekhari appointed Chief Operating Officer at Sony Music UK

02 December 2024 - Press release

Sony Music UK has today announced the appointment of Azi Eftekhari as Chief Operating Officer at Sony Music UK, with immediate effect. 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 to lead the business growth strategy.

Azi brings twenty years of experience to the role and joins Sony Music following two years as Co-President of Universal Music's Catalogue Division, where she was responsible for global artists including The Beatles, Elton John, Amy Winehouse, The Rolling Stones and The Spice Girls.

Prior to that, Azi was Head of Label Relations at YouTube where she oversaw 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 across record labels, artist management and digital platforms, where she worked on culturally impactful projects across music, theatre and brands. 

Jason Iley MBE (Chairman and CEO, Sony Music UK & Ireland) said: "Azi has a depth of experience straddling the world of music, tech and culture combined with commercial acumen and I am delighted that she is joining the team."

Azi Eftekhari (Chief Operating Officer, Sony Music UK) said: "I'm so grateful to Jason for his faith in me, and for 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."

Azi begun her music career working with Iley at Mercury Records as Director of Digital and Publicity and 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.