Universal Music Group Brings on Òscar Celma as SVP, Applied AI and Machine Learning

Universal Music Group (UMG) has hired Òscar Celma, former Engineering Director at Spotify, as Senior Vice President, Applied AI and Machine Learning. In this new role, Celma will be in charge of machine learning and AI operations throughout UMG’s global business operations while reporting to Hannah Poferl, UMG’s Chief Data Officer.

Background:

• At Spotify, Celma worked on AI-powered listening experiences such as Daylist, AI DJ, and Jam.

• He previously helmed machine learning and product analytics activities at global editorial publisher Condé Nast.

• This hire follows UMG’s licensing deal with AI music company ElevenLabs.

What they said:

• Poferl: “Òscar brings a unique blend of quantitative and product experience, deep expertise in AI, and a love of music. He’s built teams that have delivered and knows how to turn data at scale into useful insights. With the breadth and depth of UMG’s data, there’s enormous potential for him to help our teams do more for our artists.”

• Celma: “I’ve spent much of my career exploring how technology can serve artists, songwriters and music fans. It’s an exciting time to join Universal Music Group, given its industry leadership in using AI to expand what’s creatively and commercially possible. I look forward to working with Hannah and leaders across UMG to advance our AI and machine learning capabilities to support human artistry.”