Universal Music Greater China (UMGC) has appointed widely respected entertainment industry executive Gary Chan as Managing Director of Universal Music Hong Kong and Senior Vice President of Universal Music Greater China, effective immediately.
He will be based in Hong Kong and will report directly to Timothy Xu, Chairman and CEO of Universal Music Greater China.
Xu was appointed to the role of CEO and Chairman of Universal Music Greater China in September. He joined UMG fromTaihe Music Group (TMG), where he was named President & CEO in 2018.
With a career spanning over three decades, Chan holds expertise in the music and entertainment sectors across the Greater China region and abroad.
Chan served as the Chairman of IFPI Hong Kong for 10 years, from 2016 to September 2023, and has held the position of Secretary for the Hong Kong Performing Industry Association since 2009.
He joins UMGC from Media Asia Group Holdings Limited, where he served as Executive Director for 15 years, managing operations across Asia and its portfolio of over fifty iconic artists, including Andy Lau, Sammi Cheng, Leon Lai, and Miriam Yeung.
Prior to joining Media Asia Group, Chan served as Managing Director at both Warner Music Hong Kong and EMI Music Hong Kong.
According to the announcement, during his tenure at Warner Music, he introduced artist management within the company, “developing a full-service business for artists in the region”.
Additionally, as per the announcement, “he helped foster breakthrough talents including Khalil Fong, Fiona Sit, Endy Chow, Pakho Chau, Shine, and deepened collaborations between Hong Kong and Taiwan” to develop acts such as Eric Moo, Cheung Yu and Jeff Cheung.
Chan’s professional career in the entertainment industry in the region began in 1988, where he was responsible for distributing TVB dramas to global markets for prominent Hong Kong television station TVB International.
Additionally, he was a co-founder of film company Milkyway Image in 1996, alongside directors Johnny To and Wai Ka-Fai.
“Gary’s remarkable contributions to the entertainment industry extend far beyond Hong Kong, marking his dedication and visionary approach.”
Timothy Xu, Universal Music Greater China
Commenting on the announcement, Timothy Xu, Chairman and CEO of Universal Music Greater China, said: “Gary’s remarkable contributions to the entertainment industry extend far beyond Hong Kong, marking his dedication and visionary approach.
“At Universal Music, we have built upon the distinct legacy of the PolyGram label, shaping Canto-pop culture and profoundly impacting the music scenes in Hong Kong and Asia over the past half-century.
“With Gary stepping into this pivotal role, we not only reaffirm our commitment to uphold this legacy but also set our sights on the future. His leadership will be instrumental in driving the next wave of growth for Chinese music culture and unlocking greater global success.”
“I’m deeply honored to be entrusted with this role. Hong Kong, with its rich cultural tapestry and innovative spirit, remains a creative hub in the entertainment industry.”
Gary Chan
Gary Chan added: “I’m deeply honored to be entrusted with this role. Hong Kong, with its rich cultural tapestry and innovative spirit, remains a creative hub in the entertainment industry.
“At Universal Music, I anticipate an exciting journey ahead. Together, we will harness our creative strengths to venture into new areas and develop innovative strategies, ensuring our position as leaders in the ever-changing music world.”Music Business Worldwide
