In a surprise move, British Phonographic Industry (BPI) director general Andrew Yeates is to exit the trade body.
The London-based role, which he has held since July 2000, encompasses lobbying government on key legislation affecting the industry and promoting cross-industry co-operation through groups such as the Music Business Forum.
Yeates’ departure will be seen as a further blow to the British recorded music industry, which just days earlier learned of the sudden departure of fellow lobbyist Kate Fulton, the director general of British Music Rights (BMR).
Yeates took the post after one year as the BPI’s legal affairs director. He previously spent 10 years with national U.K. broadcaster Channel 4, working on a variety of music programs. Prior to that, he was legal advisor for U.K. collecting society PPL.
It is unclear who will take Yeates’ duties, although sources suggest the director general’s role will be revamped. A BPI spokesperson declined to comment.