BPI CHIEF GED DOHERTY TO EXIT

Ged Doherty, chair of the British Phonographic Industry (BPI), is stepping down after seven years in the role to focus on his Raindog Films.

Doherty, who has a long history in the music business spanning senior roles at Sony and BMG, will continue in his position with the trade organization until a successor is in place.

“We are truly grateful to Ged for his valued contribution and wise counsel over many years, but we understand his desire now to focus his time on his work in film, where he is making the same brilliant mark as he leaves in music,” said Geoff Taylor, CEO of the BPI, BRIT Awards and Mercury Prize.

Taylor credited Doherty for his “dedication” to charity The BRIT Trust and for leading the work in refreshing The BRITs Academy “to ensure the continuing relevance and success of The BRIT Awards.”

Doherty founded Raindog Films in 2012 with Oscar-winning actor Colin Firth. This year is set to be the company’s “busiest ever,” he said, with several films and documentaries about to be announced, including a $60m TV drama series to be shot in the U.K. this summer.

“I have loved every minute of working with the BPI and its members and its amazing team led by Geoff Taylor,” he added. “I can look back with pride at many achievements accomplished together, but after seven years in the role I feel the time is now right for me to move on.”