MUMBAI: Music solution company- Audio Network has elevated Chris Blakeston to the role of CEO. He previously held the role of COO in the company. Blakeston took over as the CEO from Robert Hurst, who will continue to serve on Audio Network's board of directors.

The role change will take place with immediate effect. Hurst will work closely with the company, focusing on its global growth and acquisition strategy. Hurst said, "Since its incorporation in July 2001 Audio Network has grown organically from a bootstrapped start-up into a profitable worldwide music company. Chris and his management team will have primary accountability for managing the group's operations worldwide whilst driving further organic growth opportunities, both domestically and internationally. I now look forward to working with Chris and our Board on strategic projects and to evaluate potential acquisition growth opportunities."

Before co-founding Audio Network, Hurst worked in music publishing with Boosey & Hawkes. He also has experience with PriceWaterhouse, Cable & Wireless Plc and Pearson Plc.

Audio Network CEO Chris Blakeston said, "Audio Network is an incredible business and I am both proud and excited to lead the company as it enters its next phase of growth. I would like to thank Robert for the outstanding job he's done for over a decade, delivering many consecutive years of profitable growth and building a culture at the company that has delivered the highest standards of music content and customer service."

In 2008, Blakeston join Audio Network as sales head. After which he took various roles in the company like serving the company as the deputy managing director and later became the COO in 2014. He also headed Getty Images’ video division across EMEA.

The company also revealed that Andrew Sunnucks will also continue as chairman of the board of directors, working closely with the music team. Robert Hurst founded Audio Network with Andrew Sunnucks in 2001.