Former Universal Music chair takes helm at Royal Society of Arts
Ex-JFS student David Joseph excited to lead RSA into 'a bold new chapter'
A former JFS student is taking on one of the most prestigious roles in the UK arts industry.
The Royal Society of Arts (RSA) has appointed David Joseph, former chairman of Universal Music UK and one of the country’s most respected creative industries and media executives, as chief executive at the 271- year old institution in September, succeeding Andy Haldane.
Joseph, who began his career in advertising, became chairman and chief executive at Universal Music UK in 2008, remaining in the role for 17 years working for Universal Music Group chief executive Sir Lucian Grainge.
He announced he was stepping down in September 2024 to study for a Masters degree in religion and theology at King’s College London. Jewish News understands that having completed the first year, he has delayed the final one in order take on his new job.
Awarded a CBE in 2016 for services to the music industry, Joseph, grew up in Southgate, north London and was head of artist development at RCA before his move in 1998.
He had first worked with Take That in the early 1990s, bringing them over to Universal when they reformed in 2006. Other artists on his roster include Amy Winehouse, Florence + The Machine and Sam Smith.
As well as chairing several critically acclaimed BRIT Award shows, David was also an executive producer of the Oscar and BAFTA-winning 2015 Amy documentary.
Universal has represented acts including Stormzy, Ellie Goulding, Lewis Capaldi, Celeste, U2, Years & Years and Michael Kiwanuka. International stars include Eminem, Taylor Swift, Kendrick Lamar, Lady Gaga and Rihanna.
David Joseph was the driving force behind the first industry handbook for embracing neurodiversity in the workplace, which has reached more than 200 organisations across the globe.
He was also a founding board member of Julie’s Bicycle, helping to lead the cultural sector’s response to the climate crisis, and served on the National Council of Arts Council England for eight years. In 2013, Joseph worked with Baroness Doreen Lawrence to drive music industry support for Unity, to mark the 20th anniversary of Stephen Lawrence’s murder and is Chair of the Grenfell Foundation.
Sir Loyd Grossman, chair of the RSA, said: “David’s commitment to effecting social change, his compassion and his commitment to nurturing people is exemplary.”
He added: “We are thrilled that David will join us in the autumn, knowing that he will foster a collaborative and caring culture that speaks to our fellows, partners, staff teams and the wider world. These qualities make David superbly placed to lead the RSA into its next vital phase, and we are thrilled to have him on board.”
Newly appointed, David Joseph, said: “The RSA has a remarkable heritage and untapped potential. At a time when fresh thinking and collective action are urgently needed across the globe, the RSA is uniquely positioned to drive meaningful change – uniting its rich tradition of arts, creativity and policy influence with the energy of its global Fellowship to spark ideas that shape society.
He added: “I’m excited to join such a talented organisation where we will build a bold new chapter together”.
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