MUMBAI: British recorded music industry's trade association BPI, appointed Ged Doherty as the chairman of BPI and BRIT Awards Limited. He will be taking over the responsibility from Tony Wadsworth CBE with effect from 1 January 2015. The announcement of Wadsworth CBE stepping down was made in March after giving seven years to the company.

Doherty, the former chairman and CEO of Sony Music UK, has had a variety of experience in the music industry. He was responsible in building extensive creative relationships to oversee and support the development of a diverse and successful artiste roster.

Commenting on his new role, BPI and BRIT Awards chairman, Ged Doherty said, "I started out in music when I was 16 years old playing in bands in Manchester, a lot has happened since then and I hope some of what I have learnt along the way may be of some use in this role.  I am honoured and humbled to be following on from Tony, who has been an incredible figurehead for the BPI. I am very much looking forward to working with Geoff and his team, Mike and the BPI Council, and, of course, all the BPI members."

He started his career in the 80s with artiste management, where his acts sold 20 million records. Later in 1992, he took the position of head of international marketing at Epic Records, where he was responsible for the global marketing campaigns for the legendary Michael Jackson. His successful career took him to Columbia Records in London where he was appointed MD. In 1999, Doherty was appointed president of the music division, BMG Music, and then became the chairman and CEO at Sony Music. He has been closely involved with shows like 'X-Factor' and 'Got Talent'. He founded Raindog Films Ltd along with Academy Award and BAFTA-winning actor Colin Firth in 2012. He is also chairman of an interactive music games company FOAM, and is a partner and shareholder in artiste management company Major Influence.

Departing BPI and BRIT Awards chairman Tony Wadsworth CBE, said, "I am not retiring, just recalibrating and will continue to be involved in a variety of areas of our industry for as long as they will have me."