Sony Music U.K. has appointed Taponeswa Mavunga into the newly created position of Director of Africa. Reporting directly to Jason Iley, she's tasked with expanding and strengthening the company’s scope within African music.

In her new role, Mavunga will be responsible for amplifying U.K. signed artists across Africa, as well as supporting artists within Africa to develop relationships, identify opportunities and increase visibility within the U.K.

She will work in close alignment with Mark Collen (EVP of U.K. International), the Sony Music U.K. labels and Sony Music Africa on artist strategy, acting as the U.K. gateway for identifying local talent and opportunities within the region.

“Tapi is a passionate, forward-thinking executive who has a clear vision for the future,” Iley said. “She has incredible relationships with artists and there is no one more suited to represent Sony Music U.K. in Africa’s accelerating market.

"Tapi’s first-hand experience of working in African music and entertainment and her enthusiasm to connect artists locally and globally is unmatched.”

Mavunga joined Sony Music as Head of Publicity for Columbia U.K. in 2015, where she oversaw press strategy across the label’s roster and spearheaded campaigns for artists including Childish Gambino, Koffee, Wizkid, Davido and Rosalia.

She was previously based in Johannesburg as Head of Talent and Music for Viacom Africa. Prior to that, Mavunga was at Atlantic Records for more than 15 years and worked on artist campaigns including Ed Sheeran, Jay Z, Rudimental and Sean Paul.