Senior Publishing & Composer Relations Manager: Birdsong Music Publishing

Location: Appleton Thorn

With a roster of internationally recognised composers and a growing catalogue of orchestral works, chamber music and opera, Birdsong Music Publishing is creating the music of the 21st century. Established in 2021, we offer full publishing and management services to our composers, supporting them and helping to develop their careers by connecting them to artists and ensembles of the highest standing and bringing their music to the widest possible audience.

Birdsong Music Publishing is an associated company of the Harrison Parrott Group, a leading arts and management company. Job Purpose To provide strategic, commercial and operational leadership for Birdsong Music Publishing, driving the growth of the publishing catalogue, composer roster and revenue streams. The role combines senior publishing management, business development, rights administration and commercial exploitation, whilst acting as the senior representative of Birdsong Publishing with composers, publishing partners and industry stakeholders.

As Birdsong continues to grow, the successful candidate will be expected to take a hands-on approach, balancing strategic leadership with day-to-day publishing administration and operational delivery. Key Accountabilities Strategic Development & Business Growth Composer Relationship Management Publishing Operations, Administration & Rights Management Contract Management support Licensing & Revenue Development Project & Delivery Oversight Financial Management & Reporting Marketing, Communications & Stakeholder Engagement Team Leadership & Collaboration Process Improvement & Governance Ensure all activities align with Birdsong’s strategic objectives, policies, and business priorities.

Undertake any additional responsibilities reasonably required to support the effective operation and development of the business. Skills, Knowledge and Expertise We are seeking an experienced music publishing professional with strong commercial acumen, expertise in publishing administration and rights management, and a passion for contemporary classical music. The successful candidate will be a proactive relationship-builder, capable of balancing strategic leadership with hands-on operational delivery in a growing publishing business.

Essential:
Significant experience (5 years) in music publishing, rights management, composer management or a closely related area of the music industry. Strong knowledge of music copyright, publishing administration, rights management and royalty processes Experience managing publishing agreements, commissioning contracts, licensing arrangements and related negotiations. Demonstrable experience of work registrations, copyright registrations and liaising with collection societies (e.g. PRS). Proven ability to develop and maintain strong relationships with composers, publishers, commissioning partners and industry stakeholders.

Commercially minded with experience identifying and delivering revenue-generating opportunities. Excellent project management and organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple competing priorities and deadlines. High level of accuracy, attention to detail and administrative rigour. Ability to operate effectively at both strategic and operational levels, including undertaking hands-on publishing administration where required. Excellent communication, interpersonal and IT skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office and Outlook.

Desirable:
Experience leading, managing or developing a publishing function, department or team. Knowledge of sync licensing, media partnerships and wider music rights exploitation opportunities.

Experience of score management, music materials administration or catalogue operations. Strong knowledge of contemporary classical music and an established network within the publishing and performing arts sectors. Benefits 25 days of paid holiday per year (pro-rated) in addition to statutory bank and public holidays. 5 of these days are to be taken during the office closure period in December. Increasing to 28 days after 5 years’ service.

1 paid moving day per year. Company Pension Scheme. Annual ticket allowance for Polyarts and Harrison Parrott artist events. Flexi time and hybrid working. We are an equal-opportunity employer and value diversity. Applications are welcomed from candidates of all backgrounds. Closing date for applications: 17th August 2026