MUMBAI: Elizabeth Matthews is the new CEO of the American Society of Composers Authors and Publishers (ASCAP). She will replace former ASCAP CEO John LoFrumento who retired on 31 December. Previously, Matthews held the position of EVP and general counsel at the organisation.

She was unanimously elected by the board.

Matthews said, "As CEO, I am excited about building on our unique assets to offer new, innovative services to our members and licensing partners. As new media platforms transform how we listen to music, it is critical that we evolve our own business models and update outdated music licensing laws to better reflect the reality of today's music marketplace.

Commenting on the new elevation, ASCAP president and chairman Paul Williams said, "Beth's experience in the global multimedia content sector, her deep understanding of the complexities of the music business and her passion for protecting the rights of music creators make her singularly qualified for the CEO role. Her enthusiasm for taking on the new challenges of the digital era is unparalleled."

LoFrumento was associated with ASCAP for 33 years (since 1997) and held the post of the CEO for 17 years. He said "Since joining ASCAP's executive team, Beth Matthews has been a tireless advocate for our members and a catalyst for the entire organisation."

Matthews played an important role in the development of a six-year transformative strategic plan. She was also involved in introducing the Songwriter Equity Act in Congress. She has worked with Viacom Media Networks (formerly MTV Networks), Intellectual Property and Corporate Groups for Chadbourne & Parke and the business technology group for Milbank, Tweed, Hadley & McCloy.

ASCAP is an organisation which represents more than five lakh music creators.