Help Wanted @ Apple: iTunes Label Manager
According to Apple's web site, this position is responsible for supporting the iTunes business by providing reporting and analysis, trouble-shooting and resolving business issues, managing label involvement in iTunes projects, and facilitating strong business relationships with major labels. This role will primarily involve working with the iTunes team in Cupertino and US-based label contacts, with some interactions with other iTunes regions as well."This role will provide meaningful analysis of iTunes performance overall and labels' performance relative to iTunes; identify trends and opportunities," according to Apple. "Analyze effectiveness of sales initiatives. Work with labels and iTunes to establish priorities and track progress; monitor and resolve internal iTunes (cross-functional) issues impeding progress against initiatives. Coordinate and prepare detailed label reviews, as well as facilitating more routine business discussions. Develop specific plans to increase iTunes sales with the labels by analyzing and communicating 'lost revenue' opportunities due to missing content, new initiatives, or other opportunities"
Requirements:
• Strong analytical skills including extensive experience with reporting systems, data gathering, and data management
• Relationship and account management abilities with strong communication skills
• Understanding of music industry trends and influences
• Excellent project management and coordination skills, with team-player attitude and meticulous attention to detail
• Highly motivated self-starter able to work in a fast-paced environment
• 8-10 years relevant business experience
• BA/BS required with strong analytical background; MBA a significant plus.
• Music industry background strongly preferred
More info on this and other jobs at Apple and iTunes here.
Interesting that the LAST requirement listed is for a strong preference for a background in the Music Industry. This should be the FIRST requirement for a position running the biggest music retailer in the world!! This is what’s wrong with the industry today. People who have no clue about music and how to sell music have the top jobs at labels, distributors and retailers. Is anyone surprised that a songwriter didn’t last as the head person at Epic Records?!?! And now itunes is looking for someone who can analyze the numbers but could just as easily be selling paper clips. I’ve been in the music business 30+ years and have seen a lot of changes but the worst thing to happen to the industry was when it became all about the “business” instead of about the music. I’d apply for the job but because I don’t have “extensive experience with reporting systems, data gathering and data management”, I don’t qualify. Guess all my experience in selling music to people doesn’t matter.