EMI names ex-Coke marketer as vice-president

EMI Music has appointed former Coca-Cola marketer Rafael McDonnell as its first vice president brand partnerships, licensing and synchronisation for the UK and Ireland.

McDonnell, who takes over the role in December, will be responsible for creating alliances with brands and agencies in the UK and driving EMI’s revenues from music licensing.

Prior to joining EMI Music, McDonnell was the founder and managing director of RED Entertainment Marketing, a music consultancy. He has also held a number of high-profile marketing roles at PepsiCo and Coca-Cola. As the head of marketing activation at Coca-Cola, MCDonnell launched mycokemusic.com, the first major music download services in Europe.

McDonnell based in EMI’s London office will report to Cynthia Sexton, its executive vice president of global brand partnerships, licensing and synchronisation who is based out of Los Angeles.