Max Hole has been named chairman and CEO of Universal Music Group International effective January 1, 2013, Group CEO and Chairman Lucian Grainge announced today.

Hole, who will report directly to Grainge, will be based in London and responsible for the company’s global operations outside the United States. He will also oversee UMG’s worldwide classical music business, including the Decca Classics and Deutsche Grammophon labels.

Hole is a member of UMG’s Executive Board.

“Max has contributed significantly to the evolution and continued success of our international business, Grainge said in a statement. “There is no one better to lead our efforts outside the US, where we anticipate significant growth opportunities with the addition of EMI to our existing international portfolio. Max will play an integral role overseeing our future global development.”

Mr. Hole began as an artist manager and record producer, before spending 16 years at Warner Music UK. Hole joined UMG as senior vice president, marketing and A&R, in 1998, and became executive VP in 2004. At UMGI.  In 2010, he was named COO of Universal Music Group International.Mr. Hole has worked closely with the careers of a wide-variety of artists  that include Taylor Swift, Juanes, Gotye, Enrique Iglesias, Bon Jovi, Andrea Bocelli, Milos, Girls’ Generation, Lionel Richie, Sa Ding Ding and many others. He also helped secure the company’s partnership “The Voice.”

“The future for the music industry is looking brighter than it has for some time, and there’s no shortage of energy, innovation and creativity in Universal’s companies around the world,” Hole commented. “I’m looking forward to working with new colleagues and artists from EMI, and integrating our two great companies successfully.  2013 will be an exciting year for all of us.” [Billboard.biz]