Caddick to head RIANZ

15 February 2011

Caddick to head RIANZ

Chris Caddick, one of the country’s most respected music industry leaders, is the new managing director of the Recording Industry Association of New Zealand.

Caddick is a former managing director of EMI in New Zealand and throughout his 33 year career has been recognised as a prominent cheer leader for local artists.

He takes over the mantle from Campbell Smith who has resigned after five years in charge to focus on his artist management and touring businesses.

RIANZ president Adam Holt says Caddick has all the credentials to lead the industry body.

“The RIANZ Board is delighted to welcome Chris in his new role as the head of RIANZ. Chris is one of the most widely experienced people in the industry and brings with him a deep love of music and strong vision about where our industry has been and where it needs to go.

“His label experience and his recent consulting roles have connected Chris to all areas of the New Zealand music industry. Through these he has a strong understanding of the issues facing RIANZ member labels today.

“While at EMI, Chris was a key player in the team responsible for initiating the new look to the New Zealand Music Awards. His energy and wealth of knowledge will ensure RIANZ continues to positively promote our industry, artists and labels.”

Chris Caddick acknowledges he has big shoes to fill but is looking forward to continuing to work for the good of New Zealand music.

“Campbell has done a terrific job and I want to continue to support and grow the initiatives he has brought to the industry. The focus remains very much on ensuring New Zealand artists have access to the opportunities they need to succeed in what is a pretty tough industry.

“I’m very much looking forward to the challenges,” Caddick says.

Chris Caddick started with EMI in New Zealand in 1978 as a retail manager and subsequently held positions as sales manager, marketing manager and managing director.

He left the company in 2008 when EMI restructured its local operations. Most recently Caddick was seconded by New Zealand On Air to review the government broadcast funding agency’s domestic music promotion and funding schemes.

He joins RIANZ on February 28 2011.

About Rianz: The Recording Industry Association of New Zealand Inc (RIANZ) is a non-profit organisation representing major and independent record producers, distributors and recording artists throughout New Zealand. RIANZ works to protect the rights and promote the interests of creative people involved in the New Zealand recording industry.

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