Digital music platform 7digital has appointed John Aalbers as its new CEO.
In March, Simon Cole announced he was stepping down to concentrate on other business interests, taking effect from 9th April. Cole has been CEO since the start of the company in 2014.
Aalbers has extensive experience in building early and mid-stage technology companies, with his most recent role as CEO of Arts Alliance Media and prior to that was in the Telecommunications sector where he held roles including CEO of Volubill.
It is intended that he will join the 7digital board upon completion of the required nominated adviser due diligence process.
Don Cruickshank, Chair of 7digital, said: “The board wishes to give profound thanks to Simon for his insights and vision in seeing that many companies and brands would wish to support and nurture their business models with music delivered by streaming technologies, and that they would need access to a neutral, efficient and cost-effective platform.
“That is what 7digital now provides and, after some turbulent years, it is very well positioned to thrive in the streaming-based music market of the future. We wish him well in his future endeavours.
Cole added: “This transition was planned last year when we felt that 2018 would mark the successful growth into profitability after four years.
“In the end, the events surrounding MediaMarktSaturn’s sudden strategic changes in December had a profound effect on the Company and I felt I could not leave until that position was resolved and satisfactory settlement had been achieved. Now that has been done, I leave 7digital in good shape and in good hands.
“I have enjoyed this adventure and, in particular, leading an extraordinarily talented and dedicated group of people.”
Julia Hubbard was appointed Chief Financial Officer of 7digital earlier this month.