Universal Music Greater China (UMGC) has appointed Timothy Xu chairman/CEO, succeeding Sunny Chang, who retired earlier this year. The division includes UMG’s operations in mainland China, Hong Kong and Taiwan. Xu most recently served as president/CEO of Taihe Music Group.

Said UMG President/CEO Sir Lucian Grainge, “Timothy is a real music exec, given his deep experience generating creative and commercial success in the region. I’m confident he will be instrumental as we continue to drive growth in the exciting and vibrant Chinese music market.”

Xu thanked both Grainge and UMG EVP, Market Development Adam Granite for the opportunity while vowing to “further establish the company as a dynamic and innovative leader in China’s music ecosystem.”

In 2021 UMGC became the first major music company to establish multiple frontline label operations in China when it launched Republic Records China, Capitol Records China, EMI China, PolyGram Records China and Universal Music China as its flagship label divisions. In addition to occupying his new role at UMGC, Xu currently represents China’s music sector as vice chairman of the China Music Industry Committee of CADPA (China Audio-Video and Digital Publishing Association), among other positions.

Seen here secretly wishing we'd somehow get lost in translation are (l-r) Sir Grainge, Xu and Granite.