The appointment was announced by Vico Antippas, president, Nordic, Central &amp Eastern Europe at Universal Music Group International, to whom he reports. "Randall’s experience and network of contacts in the entertainment business are unparalleled," he said. "There is no one better suited to take Universal Music South Africa into the future.”

Randall Abrahams succeeds Harry Voerman, who is retiring after more than two decades in charge of Universal Music South Africa.

Abrahams has an impressive track record in South Africa’s broadcasting and music industries, not least as a regular judge for M-Net and Mzansi Magic's Idols SA. In the broadcasting business, he has been instrumental in successfully launching, as well as revamping, several major radio stations in South Africa. Most recently, as CEO of the South African Music Awards, he led an overhaul of the annual MTN-sponsored music ceremony.

Abrahams said, "During my time in the entertainment industry, I’ve been fortunate enough to work with many talented personalities and I’ve always tried to stay in tune with the needs of the audience. I hope both these attributes stand me in good stead and I’m looking forward to working with the Universal team and artist roster to produce great music and reach new audiences."

Max Hole, chief operating officer, Universal Music Group International, paid tribute to Harry Voerman’s long tenure at Universal Music: “Harry is a peerless figure in the South African music business, who has dynamically championed the interests of our artists, and the welfare of the industry as a whole, throughout his time leading our company there. We wish him well in his new life.”