Universal Music Group's Max Hole, (pictured) was recognised in the Queen's 2015 Birthday Honours List over the weekend for services to the music industry.
Hole is chairman and CEO of Universal Music Group International, which makes him responsible for the operations of Universal Music’s territories and regions ex USA, and for the central functions at its headquarters in London. He is also a member of the senior executive board of Universal Music Group.
Hole has been closely involved with the careers of artists from all corners of the world, including Bon Jovi, Juanes, Enrique Iglesias, Andrea Bocelli, Girls’ Generation, Alejandro Sanz, Lionel Richie, Sting and Sa Dingding. He has also played a central role in bringing stars such as Taylor Swift, the Eagles, Queen, Bryan Adams and Avicii to Universal Music, and securing the company’s partnership with global music TV show The Voice.
In addition, Hole leads UMG’s worldwide classical music business, including the iconic Deutsche Grammophon and Decca Classics labels. Signed to these imprints are performers such as Daniel Barenboim, Cecilia Bartoli, Gustavo Dudamel, Anne-Sophie Mutter, Anna Netrebko and Rolando Villazón. Since September 2012, Hole has been a board member of the English National Opera, Britain’s only full-time repertory opera company.
Hole joined UMGI in 1998 as senior vice president, marketing and A&R. In 2004, he advanced to executive vice president and subsequently added responsibility for digital, strategic marketing and commercial affairs, as well as Asia Pacific and Nordic/Central/Eastern Europe. He was appointed COO in 2010.
Hole began his music industry career as an independent artist manager and record producer. In 1982, he joined Warner Music UK as A&R manager, progressing to managing director of WEA Records and, in 1990, founding managing director of East West Records. During his 16 years at the company, Hole was involved with such successful artists as Simply Red, Tori Amos, Pretenders, Sisters of Mercy, Chris Rea and the Corrs, among many others.
PPL’s Director of Performer Affairs Keith Harris was also awarded in the honours list, picking up an OBE for Services To The Music Industry.