Epic Records has relaunched in the U.K. with publishing exec Sarah Lockhart coming in as president.

After lying dormant for six years, Sony U.K. is restarting Epic as a frontline label to champion global music and British culture. The announcement coincides with the 70th anniversary of Epic Records.

Lockhart, the former head of A&R at Sony Music Publishing, will report to Jason Iley, chairman and CEO at Sony Music U.K. & Ireland, beginning 5/1.

“I’m confident that Sarah is the right person to relaunch Epic U.K. and enrich its legacy while protecting its artist-first ethos,” Iley said. "Throughout her career, Sarah has challenged the norm, pre-empted trends, and supported artists from the very beginning of their careers.”

At SMP, Lockhart served as head of A&R for three years, signing the BRIT Award-winning Aitch, PinkPantheress and D Block Europe. Previously, she co-founded east London community radio station Rinse FM, championing emerging acts in the early stages of their careers.

Lockhart also spent four years at EMI Music Publishing, where she discovered Ms Dynamite, Skepta and Benga & Skream.