June 25, 2008

By By Lars Brandle, London

The IFPI has elevated Jo Oliver, head of the IFPI's litigation department, to general counsel.

Reporting to John Kennedy, IFPI chairman and CEO, Oliver is tasked with overseeing global litigation, regulatory compliance and corporate legal affairs for the international trade body.

"Jo is an outstanding lawyer and strategist, as well as a natural team-leader who has already proved her worth to the international recording industry," comments Kennedy in a statement issued today. "She commands tremendous respect from both within the IFPI membership and outside it. Her knowledge, drive and experience made her the perfect candidate for this appointment."

A copyright law specialist, Oliver has served in her most recent role since October 2006. She was recruited by the IFPI from private practice in 2005, having worked for law firms in London, New York, Australia and her native New Zealand.

The position of IFPI general counsel has been vacant since Geoff Taylor departed in early 2007 to join the British Phonographic Industry as CEO.

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