Julia Hawkins has left her role heading investments for Universal Music UK, part of media conglomerate Vivendi, for a partner position at UK-based venture capital firm LocalGlobe.
Hawkins had been with Universal Music since 2011 and was head of strategy and investments at Universal Music UK, leading its strategic investment activities as part of Universal’s global venture capital team.
Although Hawkins’ experience chiefly focuses on media and music, she said in a blog post she is also interested in the healthcare sector, including areas such as genomics and gene therapy.
During her time at Universal, Hawkins led investments in three companies also backed by LocalGlobe: electronic musical instrument developer Roli, online yarn and knitting kit seller Wool & the Gang and music event promoter Sofar Sounds.
Prior to joining Universal, Hawkins spent two years as digital strategy manager at media group BBC Worldwide.
Hawkins said in a blog post: “With many years working with corporates under my belt I have firsthand knowledge of the opportunities that are available , whether through commercial and media partnerships, accelerators or investment possibilities.
“I also understand deeply the challenge of working with corporates (how they can be slow and may switch investment strategies). I really do think I can use this experience to support portfolio companies and the wider ecosystem.”
– Image of Julia Hawkins courtesy of LinkedIn.