Former Undertones singer Feargal Sharkey has resigned as head of British industry body UK Music.
He announced his decision this morning. Sharkey will be replaced by Jo Dipple, currently senior policy advisor, on an interim basis.
“UK Music has been one of the greatest adventures of my life and I leave now so I might continue on other journeys", Sharkey said in a statement.
“While there will be many memories above all I shall never forget what a honour and a privilege it has been to have worked with such a dedicated, creative and professional team of staff, without whom, so much simply would not have been possible. Their friendship, support and guidance has been an inspiration and they will always have my overwhelming admiration and respect. Thank you so much for allowing me to be part of that."
“What is now most important is that we can all look forward to the future successes I know that UK Music, can, and will, achieve.”
UK Music, which Sharkey helped to launch in 2008, is an umbrella body representing the collective interests of record labels, musicians, songwriters, managers and publishers.
It has lobbied on issues relating to intellectual property rights and the challenges presented to the industry in the digital age.
Before heading up UK Music, Sharkey was an A&R manager, record label md, member of the Radio Authority and chair of the Live Music Forum.
