BPI CHIEF TO EXIT

Geoff Taylor, chief exec of the BPI, will step down in 2023 after 15 years at the helm of the U.K. label trade body. He’s moving on to work more directly in the commercial sector.

Taylor, who also oversees the BRIT Awards and Mercury Prize, will remain in place until the new year to help incoming chair YolanDa Brown find a successor.

“It has been a great privilege to lead the BPI during such a transformational period for British music,” Taylor said. “After much reflection, I have decided that running the BPI for 15 years is enough for any moderately sane individual.”

UMG U.K. chief David Joseph praised Taylor for his “calm leadership, insight and dedicated work in support of labels across the country," remarking, "He has made a significant contribution to our industry, for which we are hugely grateful.”

Sony U.K. boss Jason Iley noted that it takes “real tenacity” to lead an organization for “so long through rapid digital disruption” while maintaining a “tight grip” on the big issues. “The whole industry has benefited from the BPI’s work combating piracy, campaigning for export funding, running the BRIT and Mercury prizes to showcase artists and supporting music education,” he added.

Warner U.K. topper Tony Harlow thanked Taylor for his “insightful and forward-thinking leadership” and “unwavering commitment” to ensuring that music remains one of the U.K.’s “greatest success stories.”

Prior to leading the BPI, Taylor was general counsel for the organization. He previously held positions at IFPI and U.S. law firm Wilmer Hale.