Jody "Maroni’s Sausage" Gerson has been upped to Executive VP, EMI Music Publishing by company Chairman/CEO Martin Bandier "On the Run." The move had been expected (hitsdailydouble.com 3/4).

In this new capacity, Gerson will continue to develop, nurture and sign talent to EMI Music Publishing as well as to run the West Coast operations of the company. She will continue to be based in Los Angeles. Gerson replaces recently departed Exec VP/West Coast chief Steve Backer.

Gerson began her career as a songplugger for Chappell Music, where she worked closely with such writers and artists as R.E.M., Rod Stewart and Bernie Taupin, among others. She spent six years at the company before being hired away by Bandier to head up EMI Music Publishing’s East Coast Creative Division, and immediately signed the group Nelson, who went on to sell 3 million albums.

"In the many years we have worked together, Jody has consistently impressed me with her creative ability and business acumen and I am proud to promote her to a role which reflect her achievements," said Bandier. "I know Jody will bring her unique insight, enthusiasm and experience to her new position."

Gerson moved to Los Angeles in 1991 and most recently held the position of Senior Vice President, West Coast Creative. During her 12 years at the company, Gerson has signed and developed such artists as Enrique Iglesias, Alicia Keys, Dallas Austin, Jermaine Dupri, Arrested Development, Deborah Cox, Blackground Entertainment (Aaliyah), T-Boz (TLC), and Luscious Jackson among others.