We are UMG, the Universal Music Group. We are the world’s leading music company. In everything we do, we are committed to artistry, innovation and entrepreneurship. We identify and develop recording artists and songwriters, and we produce, distribute and promote the most critically acclaimed and commercially successful music to delight and entertain fans around the world.
THE ROLE: VMG Korea, Country Head
LOCATION: Seoul, Republic of Korea
REPORTING TO: VP AMEA
Virgin Music Group is a leading global partner to independent music companies and artists, combining global infrastructure, technology and expertise with strong local market capabilities. We provide flexible distribution, artist and label services, marketing and audience-development solutions designed to help independent music businesses grow sustainably in their home markets and internationally.
THE OPPORTUNITY
Virgin Music Group is seeking an entrepreneurial and commercially driven Country Head to lead and grow our business in Korea.
This is a senior leadership role for an accomplished music executive with deep knowledge of the Korean market, a strong network across the local music ecosystem, and a proven track record of identifying, signing and developing successful label and artist partnerships.
The Country Head will be responsible for shaping and executing VMG’s strategy in Korea, expanding our portfolio of local partners, strengthening our market position and developing new sources of growth. A key priority will be building long-term relationships with ambitious Korean labels, artists, managers and music entrepreneurs, helping them grow successfully in Korea while identifying and executing on opportunities to expand their businesses internationally.
The successful candidate will combine strategic thinking with a highly hands-on approach. They will be an experienced deal maker, a credible and trusted industry partner, and an inspirational people leader who can build teams, create momentum and deliver results in a highly competitive market.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Define and execute VMG’s growth strategy for Korea, with accountability for market development, partner acquisition, revenue growth and long-term business performance.
Build and maintain a strong pipeline of prospective label, artist and management partners, leading business-development discussions from initial engagement through negotiation and deal close.
Identify and sign high-potential Korean labels, artists and music businesses that align with VMG’s strategy and capabilities.
Act as a senior strategic partner to VMG clients, helping them develop sustainable growth strategies across distribution, DSPs, marketing, audience development, partnerships and new commercial opportunities.
Develop strategies to grow Korean repertoire within its home market while identifying appropriate opportunities for international expansion through VMG’s global network.
Build and maintain senior relationships across the Korean music ecosystem, including labels, managers, artists, DSPs, platforms, media, brands, promoters and other strategic partners.
Develop new commercial, marketing and promotional partnerships that create value for VMG and its clients.
Represent VMG externally as a senior ambassador within the Korean music industry and at relevant conferences, showcases, festivals and industry events.
Lead, motivate and develop the VMG Korea team, setting clear priorities, building strong capabilities and fostering an entrepreneurial, collaborative and high-performance culture.
Collaborate closely with VMG regional and global teams to maximise opportunities for Korean partners and repertoire.
Contribute to the wider AMEA leadership agenda and regional growth strategy.
EXPERIENCE & CAPABILITIES
Significant senior-level experience within the Korean music industry, ideally across labels, distribution, artist management, music services or related digital platforms.
Deep knowledge of the Korean music and distribution landscape,…