Universal Music Group has appointed Samantha Fink Ph.D. as its new SVP of human resources.
In her new role, Fink will oversee business partnering and employee relations, working directly with the firm’s label leadership and operating units around the world. She will be based at UMG’s Santa Monica HQ and will report to Gautam Srivastava, EVP of human resources.
“At UMG, our HR organisation is focused on helping our business evolve through professional development and talent recruitment, while supporting the company’s senior management and label leadership redefine the role of a modern music company that spans film, television and theater, live events, brand partnerships and merchandising,” Srivastava said. “With Samantha, we’re adding a seasoned executive with global HR and operational experience who will play a critical role in identifying changes, assessing solutions and collaborating with employees to continue making Universal Music the best home for artists.”
Commenting on her appointment, Fink said: “This is an incredibly exciting time to join Universal Music. I’m looking forward to working with our labels to support UMG’s mission around the world to develop new opportunities for artists. I’m thankful to Gautam and the entire executive team for this responsibility.”
Fink brings over 20 years of leadership experience overseeing global human resources teams in North America, Europe and Asia at companies including Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton (LVMH), Prada USA Corp. and James Perse Enterprises.
She most recently was a member of Spencer Stuart’s Consumer and Human Resources Practices, based in Los Angeles. She holds a doctorate in organisational anthropology from the Université de la Sorbonne Nouvelle - Paris III and a master’s degree in cultural anthropology and comparative linguistics from the Université de Rouen. She earned a master’s degree in social work administration and policy from the University of Michigan and a master’s degree in French literature and cultural studies from Middlebury College. Fink holds a bachelor’s degree in French language and literature from the University of California, Los Angeles.
