British Government lobbying trade body UK Music has appointed former political advisor Jamie Njoku-Goodwin as its new CEO. He takes up he role in October, succeeding Michael Dugher who stood down in January.

Tom Kiehl, who has been Acting CEO since February, continues as Deputy CEO and Director of Public Affairs.

Welcoming the appointment, UK Music Chair Tom Watson said: “Jamie is a first-class appointment and brings renewed leadership to UK Music at a vital time for the industry.

“His experience of working at the heart of Government will be invaluable to the industry as we make the case to ministers that our sector needs further support as we return to being a net contributor to the country’s economy."

During his time in Government, Njoku-Goodwin was a special adviser to Health Secretary Matt Hancock and at the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport. Speaking of his new role, he said: "There are big challenges facing commercial music, like the impact of coronavirus, the importance of copyright, and the need for more action on diversity and inclusion.

"But for all the challenges, there are also huge opportunities, and I am confident that with the right support, the music industry can be the British success story of the 2020s.

"I look forward to working closely with the Government, music makers and music lovers to support the music industry and capitalize upon the huge potential that it offers to the U.K."