Andrew Jenkins, who has led Universal Music Publishing Group’s Australia and Asia‑Pacific region since the mid‑2000s, will leave the company on July 1. His departure, announced on June 1, caps nearly two decades of overseeing publishing operations, creative teams and high‑profile licensing agreements across a sprawling market.

Jenkins' 20‑year tenure ends July 1

According to the company announcement, Jenkins began his publishing career in 1993 at BMG Music Publishing International and rose to president in 2005 before transitioning to UMPG after its acquisition of BMG in 2006. Over the next 20 years he managed UMPG’s activities in Australia, Asia, Africa and the Middle East, shaping the label’s regional strategy.

Digital licensing deals that reshaped APAC markets

The report highlights Jenkins’ role in brokering the SACEM and APRA multi‑territory agreements , which unlocked new revenue streams for songwriters and expanded UMPG’s digital footprint. These contracts are credited with helping the company navigate the shift from physical sales to streaming platforms across diverse territories.

Industry bodies chaired by Jenkins

Jenkins also served as chair of the International Confederation of Music Publishers (ICMP) and was a founding board member of the International Music Publishers Association (IMPA). In Australia he sat on the boards of APRA, AMCOS and AMPAL, reinforcing his influence beyond corporate walls.

Who will succeed Jenkins at UMPG?

UMPG has not yet identified a replacement, and the source notes that the search is ongoing. The lack of a named successor leaves questions about continuity for ongoing licensing negotiations and regional artist development.

Unanswered question:Will new leadership maintain the digital momentum?

While Jenkins praised the company’s commitment to songwriters, it remains unclear whether his successor will preserve the aggressive digital licensing strategy that defined his era. the industry will be watching for any shift in UMPG’s approach to emerging markets.