Universal Music Group’s digital strategy team creates key features for Web3 and the metaverse | tags

universal music groupThe digital strategy team at has created new roles to further promote new partnerships and initiatives in the Web3 and metaverse space, as well as with accelerators, startups, and early-stage companies.

Álvaro Galbete-Velilla, an entertainment executive with two decades of experience at the intersection of music and technology, has been appointed, effective immediately, as Senior Vice President of New Business. The joins UMG from sound cloudwhere he served as director of business development

Galbete-Velilla will work closely with UMG departments and key partners to develop opportunities in Web3 and metaverse sectors, as well as other emerging areas of digital business development.

Kristen Bender, who plays a key role in implementing digital business partnerships with UMG’s operating units and leading the major’s engagement with entrepreneurs globally, has been elevated to senior vice president, digital innovation strategy and development of business. Both Galbete-Velilla and Bender are based in Santa Monica and report to Michael Nash, Executive Vice President and Chief Digital Officer.

Michael Nash said: “We believe that our leadership in innovation is a key factor that puts us at the forefront of the transformation of the music industry, so we are excited to have Alvaro and Kristen fill these key roles. Here at UMG, we are building a team more focused than ever on leveraging digital disruption to deliver new opportunities for our artists and record labels, while influencing the shaping of the next generation of music services.”

Álvaro Galbete-Velilla said: “Thanks to accelerating technological development, a new generation of artists and fans is creating and discovering music in ways in which spatial and social dimensions play a much more critical role than ever before. These new platforms, immersive experiences, models and creator economies represent the next frontier for music and I am incredibly excited to join one of the most talented teams in the industry to build on Universal Music Group’s mission of art and innovation. ”.

Kristen Bender said: “Most of the biggest partners in the music industry today started out as an idea driven by a lot of passion. I am delighted to take on this new role to help guide the next generation of entrepreneurs and start-ups at the intersection of music and technology, and I look forward to fostering the development of innovative creative and business opportunities of the future for our artists, record labels. and music fans from around the world.

For more stories like this and to stay up-to-date with all our market-leading news, features and analysis, sign up for our daily Morning Briefing newsletter.