7digital has appointed Edward Kershaw to the role of Chief Commercial Officer.

Based in 7digital’s London HQ, he will assume responsibility for the company’s commercial, marketing, licensing, and legal operations on a global basis.

Kershaw (pictured) began his career in the record industry, with label management and international marketing roles at Virgin and Decca, consultancy assignments for EMI and Sony, and production of numerous studio recordings. In 2000, he was appointed CEO of Floot.com, a pioneer music download store, before becoming group head of music at Vodafone and leading the launch of the first multi-market mobile music download store.

In addition, Kershaw has worked in entertainment service development roles at Nokia, and most recently was VP, client services at Nielsen, where he ran global accounts with technology and telecom clients.  

Pete Downton, previously chief commercial officer at 7digital, has been promoted to a newly-created deputy CEO role while Simon Cole remains at the helm of the company.

Kershaw commented: “It’s a pleasure to be joining 7digital at such an exciting time in the company’s development. With an impressive roster of existing clients and a pipeline full of prospects who are looking to build innovative and scalable digital music platforms, there is significant opportunity for growth.”

Simon Cole, CEO of 7digital, commented: “At 7digital, we have recently reorganised our team to ensure the interests of our clients and music industry stakeholders continue to take priority. Edward’s wealth of experience across the music and technology industries makes him uniquely positioned to lead the commercial side of our business through its next phase of expansion.”

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