Max Hole has been appointed as Chairman/CEO of Universal Music Group International. He will report to UMG CEO/Chairman Lucian Grainge. Hole will be based in London and oversee the music giant's operations outside the U.S., as well as UMG's Classical music business.

In a statement, Grainge said, "Max has contributed significantly to the evolution and continued success of our international business. There is no one better to lead our efforts outside the U.S., where we anticipate significant growth opportunities with the addition of EMI to our existing international portfolio. Max will play an integral role overseeing our future global development."

"The future for the music industry is looking brighter than it has for some time, and there's no shortage of energy, innovation and creativity in Universal's companies around the world," Hole added. "I'm looking forward to working with new colleagues and artists from EMI, and integrating our two great companies successfully.  2013 will be an exciting year for all of us."