Jo Dipple has been announced as UK Music’s chief executive having occupied the role on an acting basis since the departure of Feargal Sharkey.
Dipple, who was the UK industry umbrella organisation’s senior policy advisor, stepped up to become acting CEO last November when Sharkey left after three years because he “wanted to continue on other journeys”. However, he offered no further explanation about why he left.
Dipple said she was delighted to take on the role. “The British music industry is an extraordinary cultural and economic force and I look forward to working with government and our members to ensure its continued dominance,” she said.
UK Music chairman Andy Heath added: “UK Music is now established as the representative voice of the UK’s commercial music industry. That voice is now at its most important as government looks to change the copyright framework that underpins our sector. The board is confident that Jo will excel in the months and years ahead.”
Dipple joined UK Music in October 2008, a week before the organisation launched, having previously been a strategic communications adviser to the Prime Minister. She is a former Daily Mirror journalist and then became head of public affairs at Trinity Mirror before entering the world of politics. This included serving as then Chancellor Gordon Brown’s press secretary during the 2005 General Election.
Jo Dipple has been announced as UK Music’s chief executive having occupied the role on an acting basis since the departure of Feargal Sharkey.
