MUMBAI: General Secretary of the Musicians’ Union (MU) and President of the International Federation of Musicians (FIM), John Smith has been appointed the new Chairman of PPL UK (Phonographics Performance Ltd). He will succeed Fran Nevrkla OBE, who will retire by the end of 2015. Smith will join the office on 1st January 2016.

Speaking on his appointment, Smith said, “I am delighted to be given the opportunity to become Chairman of PPL. It is a great honour to follow in the footsteps of Fran Nevrkla who has presided over such a successful chapter in PPL’s history. Working for many years with PPL, the MU and for the FIM has given me a firm grounding in the practical application of performers’ rights and the role of effective collective management - knowledge that I will continue to apply on behalf of all PPL’s performer and record company members. I am looking forward to being part of the PPL team and working with Peter and his staff to further the success of the company.”

PPL CEO, Peter Leathem said, “John has an excellent knowledge of PPL and the wider music industry and his appointment is unanimously supported by the Board. John’s appointment provides stability and continuity to the organisation which is key to ensuring future success. As President of the FIM, John’s knowledge of the international music industry landscape will be invaluable as we continue to expand our reach, scale and services in this area for the benefit of our members and the global music industry. I look forward to working with John in his new role as we continue to look to the future to maximise neighbouring rights revenues from the UK and internationally.”

Smith has been active in the music industry for four decades and has worked with PPL for many years. He was key to bringing about the merger of PAMRA (Performing Artists’ Media Rights Association) and AURA (Association of United Recording Artists) into PPL, forming one of the world’s most successful and efficient Collective Management Organisations. Currently, Smith is director on the PPL Board and PPL Performer Board.