Celebrating a Music Industry Titan: Jason Iley Honored with the Prestigious MITS Award

Jason Iley, the Chairman and CEO of Sony Music UK & Ireland, has been named the recipient of the 2022 Music Industry Trusts Award (MITS), recognizing his remarkable contributions to the British music industry over the past three decades. Iley's unwavering commitment to nurturing talent, diversifying the industry, and driving impactful initiatives have cemented his status as a true visionary in the field.

Honoring a Legacy of Excellence and Innovation

A Trailblazer in the Music Industry

Jason Iley's journey in the music industry began in 1994 at Epic Records, where he honed his skills and developed a keen eye for talent. His subsequent move to Universal Music Group saw him play a pivotal role in launching the careers of artists such as Amy Winehouse, Keane, and Sugababes. Iley's rise through the ranks continued as he was appointed President of Mercury Records, working with legendary acts like Sir Elton John, JAY-Z, Rihanna, Sir Paul McCartney, Kanye West, and U2, who decided to follow him to the label after 27 years at Island Records.In 2013, Iley's expertise and leadership were recognized when he was named President of JAY-Z's record label, Roc Nation, in New York. However, his heart remained in the UK, and in 2014, he returned to take on the role of Chairman and CEO of Sony Music UK & Ireland, the company where his illustrious career had begun.

Championing Talent and Driving Transformation

As the longest-serving Chairman in Sony Music UK's history, Iley has consistently championed new talent and worked with some of the biggest names in the music industry. Under his leadership, the company has diversified its roster, signing homegrown acts such as Calvin Harris, Paloma Faith, Mark Ronson, George Ezra, Robbie Williams, Rag'n'Bone Man, and this year's breakthrough artists Central Cee and Myles Smith, as well as internationally acclaimed stars like Beyoncé, Adele, Harry Styles, Miley Cyrus, SZA, P!NK, and Foo Fighters.Iley's impact extends beyond chart-topping success, as he has spearheaded groundbreaking initiatives to support a new generation of music industry executives. The launch of a female-focused A&R Academy and a landmark Childcare Support Scheme have aimed to increase the proportion of women in senior roles, addressing long-standing gender imbalances in the industry.

Prioritizing Mental Health and Social Justice

Recognizing the importance of mental health and well-being, Iley has overseen the creation of a new role for an in-house Director of Artist & Employee Wellbeing at Sony Music UK. The company has also provided mandatory mental health management training for all employees in collaboration with Mind, the leading mental health charity.Furthermore, under Iley's leadership, the UK arm of Sony Music's award-winning Social Justice Fund has awarded £2.2 million in grants to 22 charity partners, investing in access to music education, backing criminal justice reform, and supporting grassroots communities. This commitment to social responsibility and equity has cemented Iley's reputation as a visionary leader who understands the transformative power of music.

Shaping the BRIT Awards and Receiving Royal Recognition

Iley's influence extends beyond his role at Sony Music UK. He has also served as Chairman of the BRIT Awards Committee, shaping the prestigious ceremony from 2017 to 2019. In recognition of his contributions to music and charity, Iley was awarded an MBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours List in October 2020.As Iley prepares to receive the MITS Award, he expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to highlight the important work of the BRIT Trust and Nordoff & Robbins, two UK music charities that will benefit from the event. "It's an honour to be the recipient of this year's MITS award, and credit to the talented artists I have been lucky enough to work with throughout my career," Iley said.The MITS Award committee, led by Toby Leighton-Pope and Dan Chalmers, praised Iley's exceptional influence on the music industry, from propelling legendary artists to the forefront to driving groundbreaking initiatives that have transformed the landscape. "His commitment to nurturing talent is commendable, and we are thrilled to honour his accomplishments with the MITS Award," said Leighton-Pope.Chalmers echoed these sentiments, stating, "Jason is someone who has long deserved the MITS Award. As the longest-standing chair of Sony Music UK, he has been responsible for breaking some of the biggest British acts of all time. His innovative leadership and steadfast commitment, his incredible work with the BRIT Awards, and overall passion for this industry make him a truly deserving honouree."As the music industry gathers to celebrate Iley's remarkable achievements, his legacy as a visionary leader, a champion of talent, and a driving force for positive change will undoubtedly inspire the next generation of music industry professionals to follow in his footsteps.