Nikola Jovanovic appointed Vice President Virgin Music Label&Artists Services, Western Balkans and Head of Society Relations
Following its launch in July 2021 in Serbia and strategic partnership with the Balkaton label, Virgin Music Label&Artists Services is now expanding its operations across the region, as an independently operated division. In line with this expansion, Universal Music Western Balkans has announced the appointment of music business executive Nikola Jovanovic as Vice President of Virgin Music Label&Artist Services, Western Balkans and Head of Society Relations, Universal Music Western Balkans, effective January 1, 2022.
Widelya cknowledged as one of the most respected independent music executives in the region, Nikola Jovanovic currently serves as the Vice President of Runda– The Regional Association of Independent Discographers Balkans, the founder of Kontra Rights, a full artist & label service and management agency specialized in protecting publishing and neighboring rights, artist management and music PR and also serves as the executive director of the Milan Mladenović Estate.
In making the announcement, Fabian Stilke, Universal Music’s General Manager, Western Balkans said, “ Nikola is part of a new era of Balkan music executives, that has been pushing change within the music industry across the region, he brings a deep understanding and respect for the regional creative scene and artists. His experience, dedication and ethics, fit right in with the spirit and ethos of Virgin Records. I am delighted to welcome the Nikola tour team and know that he will head this new regional division to massive success.”
“It’s an honor to join Universal Music and to become part of Virgin Music and its rich culture and legacy,” said Nikola Jovanovic. “I have been working with artists and indie labels from this region for many years, constantly pushing to bring the necessary change to the regional music industry, to enable young talents and entrepreneurs to make a living out of their creativity and art. I am very grateful for the trust the company is placing in me, giving me the opportunity to continue this path as Vice President of Virgin Music Label&Artist Services, Western Balkans. Being able to provide the next generation of independent artists and labels from this region with UMG’s industry-leading regional and international networks, technology and expertise to help them reach new audiences and empower them for long-term success in the region and abroad is thrilling. ”
The new division, led by Jovanovic will enrich the regional market and provide artists and music labels with the necessary expertise, opportunities and support. Located in Belgrade, Virgin Music Label&Artists Services, Western Balkans will support a lent from across the entire region.