MUMBAI: Digital Music platform 7digital, has announced James Priestley as GM of North America. Priestley, who previously held the post of business development VP, will move from London to 7digital’s San Francisco office.

As the head of the San Francisco office, he will manage all operations and business development in the United States, Canada and Latin America.

“It is an honour to be chosen to lead the North American arm of 7digital’s vast global presence,” said Priestley.

He added, “We already have a number of major partners in the US but know there is a gigantic opportunity for growth in North America, as well as Latin America. Both our existing clients, and the exciting roster of companies we are in discussions with, show that there is a huge appetite for innovative and scalable music platforms. We are extremely busy and I could not be more excited to get started.” 7digital’s partners include Mariposa, Pledge Music, The Overflow, the Spanish Broadcasting System, ROK Mobile, urRadio, CrowdTunes, i.am+, FUHU, Rithm, Onkyo and more. The company recently expanded into the Latin American market through a partnership with Mariposa.

7digital CEO Simon Cole said, “James has been an extremely valuable part of the 7digital team for close to a decade, during which he helped launch countless partners that have really accelerated our growth.” He added, “His insight and experience in digital media, marketing, and business development provides the exact type of leadership we need to further expand our presence and client base in North America. While we are impressed by the growing reach of interest in our service globally, North America is particularly active across all sectors. James is an integral part of us strengthening our team on the ground in the US.”

Priestley has held various positions at 7digital since 2006. He started as production manager, and later made account manager, and senior account manager. He has also worked with Warner Music Group and The Guardian.