Nicholas Firth, who helped build BMG Music Publishing into one of the world’s four top music publishers, has been promoted to Chairman by BMG Chairman/CEO Rolf Schmidt-Holtz.

Firth, who’s been President of BMG Music since its formation in 1987, will continue to direct the pubbery’s operations in 31 countries while based in New York and reporting directly to Schmidt-Holtz.

BMG Music Publishing has recently been riding high on the global music charts with releases from Nelly and Robbie Williams. BMG also publishes current international hits from The Calling and U.K. Pop Idol winner Will Young. In its 15-year history, the company has made more than 200 catalog and corporate acquisitions in 15 countries, including those of Santana, Fleetwood Mac, B.B. King, Bryan Ferry, Barry Manilow, Peter Cetera and Gilbert Becaud. Aside from Nelly and Robbie Williams, the roster includes Coldplay, the Bee Gees, Rammstein, Elvis Costello, Beck, Erykah Badu, the Cure, the Eurythmics, Annie Lennox and Wu-Tang Clan.

Commented Schmidt-Holtz: "Nick has built BMG’s music publishing arm into one of the largest and most profitable in the world. I am confident that, with his creativity, efficient management and business savvy, he will guide BMG Music Publishing to even newer heights of success. He’s even licensed ‘Deutscheland Uber Alles’ for a Coke commercial."

Added Firth: "The last 15 years have been immensely rewarding. Growing BMG Music Publishing from its modest roots to a global competitor has been a lot of fun. I look forward to continuing our expansion during this challenging time. Now will you excuse me? TVLand is airing a Hogan’s Heroes marathon."

Prior to joining BMG in 1987, Firth spent more than 20 years with Chappell & Co. (then a division of PolyGram BV), culminating with simultaneous posts as President of Chappell International and Vice President of the PolyGram Publishing Division.