IFPI, the organisation that represents the recording industry worldwide,announced the appointment of Victoria Oakley (née Dean) as its new Chief Executive Officer
Oakley will join IFPI in June from global strategic communications and advocacy consultancy, Portland, where she is currently CEO. Oakley spent nearly two decades in the British Diplomatic Service, with roles in London, Paris, Brussels, Washington D.C. and the Eastern Caribbean, where she was High Commissioner until 2016. She then spent three years at Portland before joining Google as the Global Public Policy Director. Oakley returned to Portland in 2022 to take up the CEO role, leading a 300-strong team of strategic communications and public affairs professionals across London, Doha, Singapore, Nairobi, Paris, Berlin and Brussels.
As CEO of IFPI, Oakley will lead the organisation’s global operations, coordinating with its national group network as it works to promote the value of recorded music and the rights of its 8,000 record company members from 70 countries around the world.
Commenting on her appointment, Victoria Oakley, said: “I’m delighted to be joining IFPI and leading the global team as it continues its work to create the best possible environment for music worldwide. The sector is once again experiencing a period of rapid evolution with new technology creating both exciting opportunities and new challenges. We must continue to stand up for the rights of those creating and investing in music in order to secure its incredibly exciting future.”
Rob Stringer CBE, Chairman, Sony Music Group said: “We are delighted that Vikki will be representing our global industry at a time of great change and transformation. Her decades of expertise combined with strong relationships around the world, will help us ensure music is recognized for the value it deserves and artists are always put first.”
Sir Lucian Grainge, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Universal Music Group said: “I’m pleased that Vikki is joining the IFPI during this dynamic time for the music industry. Vikki brings the right skills and experience to help the global industry tackle important issues and opportunities collaboratively and with a fresh vision. We look forward to working with her.”
Robert Kyncl, Chief Executive Officer, Warner Music Group said: “As our industry rapidly evolves, it’s vital we continue to build an environment where investment in talent thrives, and technology helps creativity flourish. Vikki is a great choice to help lead the global campaign for the rights of artists and those who back them, and I’m excited she’s bringing her expertise and experience to IFPI.”
IFPI’s former CEO, Frances Moore, retired in December 2023 after leading the organisation since 2010. John Nolan, Chief Financial Officer, and Lauri Rechardt, Chief Legal Officer, will continue to act as joint heads of IFPI until Oakley’s arrival.