Roberto Neri, Downtown Music Publishing’s newly-appointed executive vice president, U.K., and head of European business development for its parent company, Downtown Music Holdings, has spoken to Music Week about his priorities going forward.
In his dual role, Neri will lead broader acquisition and expansion opportunities in the region while continuing to represent Downtown Music Publishing’s interest in the U.K., and maintain Downtown’s relationships with collective management organisations. He will continue to report directly to CEO Justin Kalifowitz.
Speaking to Music Week, Neri isolated some key objectives for the UK and European markets in his new role.
“There continue to be a number of opportunities across Europe to invest in local repertoire,” said Neri. “We remain interested in growing a diverse roster of songwriters and our catalogue of exceptional, world-class songs.”
Commenting on his appointment, Downtown Music Holdings CEO Justin Kalifowitz said: “Roberto has been instrumental in bringing first-rate songwriters, producers and iconic catalogs to Downtown, while simultaneously supporting the growth of our global business and serving as a key ambassador for Downtown in the U.K. music publishing community. I’m thrilled that he’s taking on this expanded leadership role with our broader group and can’t think of anyone better suited as we continue to invest within the region.”
In the past two years, Neri has led signings with numerous high-profile songwriters and producers, including Saltwives, the British writer-producer duo behind some of the biggest songs globally (Remind Me To Forget - Kygo ft. Miguel, Dusk Till Dawn - Zayn ft. Sia). Neri also led the acquisition of Salli Isaak Music including the works of U.K. hitmakers Jimmy Napes, who is behind much of the Sam Smith catalogue, and Paloma Faith, as well as driving partnerships with Faber Music, home to songs from the Cats Musical.
“I’m excited and truly honoured to take on this new role within Downtown Music Holdings. It is an exciting time for the company, and I’m grateful to Justin for his continued support. The U.K. and Europe continue to be incredibly important markets for both creators and consumers of music, and I’m eager to help shape and execute our ongoing expansion in the U.K. and across Europe,” added Neri.
Neri joined Downtown in 2015 through its acquisition of Eagle-i Music and is an elected board director at PRS For Music, PPLPRS Ltd, and the Music Publishers Association.
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