Vivendi Universal Net USA, Vivendi Universal’s U.S.-based Internet/technology company, today announced that MP3.com president Derrick R. Oien has been upped to the post of President of Vivendi Universal Net USA Music Group.
Appointed by CEO Robin D. Richards, Oien is responsible for overseeing all initiatives of VUNet USA’s popular music properties including MP3.com, RollingStone.com, GetMusic.com and EMusic.com.
The appointment follows the creation last fall of VUNet USA and underscores the company’s mission to create more efficient business strategies through the consolidation of top entertainment and education properties under one cohesive management team. Oien’s role within the organization includes extensive involvement in sales initiatives across the Music Group, which offers a comprehensive suite of appealing features including music news, downloads, artists interviews, subscription services and user-generated content. Combined, VUNet USA’s music sites have attracted more than 45 million registered users to date, yielding unprecedented access to a broad base of music fans.
“Since joining MP3.com two-and-a-half years ago, Derrick proved to be a key factor in the company’s success through aggressiveness, business savvy and unwavering dedication,” stated Richards. “VUNet USA is fortunate to have Derrick on board to help lead it forward. He has a great sense of the new unit’s vision and a clear understanding of the unique, compelling characteristics that each of our music brands possesses.”
“It is a privilege to work in this capacity with the fantastic teams at RollingStone.com, EMusic, GetMusic and MP3.com,” said Oien. “The online music industry continues to be a fascinating and ever-evolving entity. VUNet USA’s Music Group consists of some of the Internet’s most progressive and trusted properties, and I look forward to the challenge of preserving and expanding these individual brands while leveraging the added resources available through this consolidated organization.”
Oien joined MP3.com in July of 1999 serving most recently as President and Chief Operating Officer. Prior to MP3.com, he held various positions at established organizations including the Universal Music Group, Sony Pictures Studios, BDO Seidman, L.L.P. and Computer Sciences Corporation. Oien holds a Bachelor of Science degree from California State University, Los Angeles.
