Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG) has named Joe Fang — a longtime media executive with a focus on global markets — its first-ever managing director, China.
Based in UMPG China’s new Beijing headquarters, Fang reports to Andrew Jenkins, UMPG president, Australia and Asia Pacific Region. In his new role, Fang will oversee the publishing giant’s Chinese language roster, and lead the development of UMPG Hong Kong, working closely with Universal Music Group in China as well as local partners. UMPG recently joined the Music Copyright Society of China, and is deepening its cooperation with Chinese DSPs, tech companies and content providers.
“Continuing with our efforts to be best-in-class around the world, we have put a strong and strategic emphasis on UMPG’s growth in China,” said UMPG COO Marc Cimino. “There is no one better suited to accomplish that than Joe Fang who is leading us in what has become a very exciting territory for our songwriters.
“From the first moment we met Joe, it was clear that his leadership abilities, integrity, ambition and passion for music were qualities that fit perfectly with the culture we have at UMPG,” he continued. “We are thrilled to have Joe leading our business in China and look forward to the many accomplishments that he will achieve with his team.”
Fang most recently served as head of production at content and vendor services studio BASE Media, which works with partners in both the U.S. and China; and before that, chief business director of media at real estate developer China Fortune Land Development. He has also served in director, producer and consulting roles for production companies like Pinewood Studios, National Film Capital, and the Beijing Olympic Games in 2008.
“I am from a music family but never imagined having the incredible opportunity of working for Universal Music Publishing,” Fang said. “Since I’ve taken the job, I’ve seen so much excitement in the eyes of local musicians and songwriters after they really understood what a true music publisher can do for them. China needs UMPG, just as UMPG needs China.”
