Sony Music-owned distribution and artist and label services company The Orchard has made two key executive promotions for the UK and Europe.
Ian Dutt has been elevated to President, UK, while Chris Manning has been named Managing Director, UK & Europe.
Both execs will continue reporting to Colleen Theis, President and Chief Operating Officer.
Dutt and Manning are based in London and lead global distribution efforts and day-to-day operations for the company.
Collectively, Dutt and Manning oversee a team of over 150 employees in The Orchard’s London office, the company’s largest presence outside its global headquarters.
Manning also provides direct leadership to Orchard offices in France, Benelux and Scandinavia as well as driving the regional European strategy.
Dutt joined The Orchard in 2016 as part of the company’s merger with Sony RED UK, where he was serving as MD.
In his seven-plus years with the company, Dutt has played a key role in developing the company’s UK strategy including key partnerships, growing the client roster, and overseeing day-to-day operations of The Orchard’s second-largest market.
The Orchard says that Dutt has been instrumental in label signings and overseeing artist development.
Under his purview, Jorja Smith, RAYE, Blossoms, The Snuts and Skepta have partnered with The Orchard. Dutt recently expanded The Orchard’s footprint in electronic music with the acquisition of Above Board.
“We are proud to elevate these two homegrown executives to greater leadership positions within the company. Ian’s leadership skills, business savvy, proven expertise, and passion for independent music are a testament to his tenure with The Orchard.”
Colleen Theis, The Orchard
Under Dutt’s leadership, The Orchard has recently signed deals with labels including Northern Quarter, The Other Songs, and MDLBeast. He joined Sony Music UK in 2010 as Marketing Director at Columbia. Prior to his tenure with Sony, Dutt spent 15 years immersed in independent music at [PIAS].
Manning began his tenure at The Orchard in 2008, holding several posts including label management and business development. He also managed local and international operations, strengthening The Orchard’s global reach and playing a major role in the mergers of Above Board, Red Essential, finetunes and Phonofile into The Orchard.
He has worked with numerous clients including Perfect Havoc, Demon, One Seven, Smash the House, NWE, One Media, FAMM, Ignition, Lithuania HQ, and Napalm.
Theis said: “We are proud to elevate these two homegrown executives to greater leadership positions within the company. Ian’s leadership skills, business savvy, proven expertise, and passion for independent music are a testament to his tenure with The Orchard.
“Chris’s multiple roles within the company have touched on all aspects of the business, advancing him to the leader he is today. His progression within The Orchard has yielded a deep understanding of our culture and the unique needs of our UK and European clients. Ian and Chris will continue to spearhead operations for our artist and label partners, expand our network, and seek out amazing independent talent in our second biggest market. Together, they are an unparalleled team who work tirelessly to connect our clients from the region to audiences worldwide.”
“I am delighted to be able to continue my journey with The Orchard and Sony. Even after all this time, it feels like we are only just getting started.”
Ian Dutt
Dutt added: “I am delighted to be able to continue my journey with The Orchard and Sony. Even after all this time, it feels like we are only just getting started.
“I am blessed to work with such a forward thinking, nurturing, and talented Senior Management team in both New York and London. A company is only as good as its people, and our people are the best in the business.”
“Having been at The Orchard for a long time, it’s super exciting to take on this new position. The passion, vision, and relentless dedication remain as strong today as it was when I first joined the company.”
Chris Manning
Manning added: “Having been at The Orchard for a long time, it’s super exciting to take on this new position. The passion, vision, and relentless dedication remain as strong today as it was when I first joined the company.
“In this ever-evolving landscape, we see an opportunity to innovate, amplify talent, and be the best partner to our artist and label roster. We’re at a hugely exciting time in the space we operate in, and I look forward to our continuing success with Ian and the fantastic team we have here across the board at the Orchard.”Music Business Worldwide
