Music distribution is the process by which music is administered or sold to the public. This can be via CDs, MP3 downloads or ringtones. Because the goal of music distribution is sales, marketing and promotions are necessary components of the distribution process. Consequently, those with marketing or promotion experience can find a number of upper-level music distribution jobs.
Senior Product Manager
A senior product manager often works for record companies. Their main function is to prepare new artist releases for mass consumption. This includes maximizing the marketing potential of each artist through promotions and other marketing strategies. Typically, senior product managers work closely with marketing directors at a record company in addition to working with its digital, new business development and A&R departments. A senior product manager also coordinates promotional campaigns with radio stations and oversees the distribution of product to radio stations. Another duty is that of creating sponsorship and product placement opportunities for new artists. Finally, senior product managers monitor the distribution income from artist releases.
Production Clearance Manager
A production clearance manager often works for a production company, but may work for a record label as well. Their duties include the following: oversee the delivery requirements for music products, ensure residual payments for the distribution of products is dispersed to unions and other appropriate parties and secure copyright and trademark protection for music products. Additionally, a product clearance manager may be responsible for assembling press kits, artwork and other publicity information for artists for delivery to retail stores, radio stations and digital music entities. Individuals pursuing this field should have experience working with a production company or record label, and should be familiar with delivery protocol, production clearances and worldwide distribution.
Account Manager
The duties of an account manager for a record label or production company are diverse. The chief duty of an account manager is to bring together the marketing and sales strategies in a way that maximizes the sales potential of music releases. Also, an account manager may develop discount programs for music releases--typically those releases that have not sold well or that have been in stock for long periods of time. Often, with new releases, an account manager will arrange for in-store appearances by an artist or establish in-store merchandising promotions. An account manager also monitors weekly sales for music releases. Music distribution account managers are expected to have between three and five years of experience in the music business.
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