Universal Music Russia has recruited Dmitry Konnov to the role as GM, with immediate effect. Konnov succeeds David Junk, who leaves in December as managing director of the Moscow-based company.
Konnov will be tasked with overseeing all aspects of the firm’s operations, reporting to Vico Antippas, president, central & eastern Europe, at Universal Music Group International.
Until recently, Konnov was VP, marketing, public relations and music industry relations at MTV Russia.
Working in tandem with Universal Music Group’s Interscope Records, Junk played a central role in the success of Russian duo t.A.T.u., whose debut 2002 album “200 Po Vstrechnoy” (200/KM in the Wrong Lane),” sold more than five million copies worldwide, according to the company. Their sophomore album, “Dangerous and Moving,” was released in September and has cracked the top 20 of Billboards European Top 100 Albums.
A native of Ohio, Junk in 1996 joined Universal Music (then Polygram) Russia, the territory’s first affiliate of a western record company. After his initial role as controller, he was promoted to VP, finance and administration in May 1998 and upped to MD in April 1999. Following his departure from the company, Junk is expected return to his native U.S.
