Key Woolies exec leaves for Universal

Universal Pictures UK has taken on former Woolworths man Jim Batchelor as its new sales director, according to a report on

Music Week.

The new hire follows Universal Music’s swoop for HMV e-commerce director Gideon Lask – the second instance of Universal flexing its muscles and swiping key execs from the entertainment retail space.

Batchelor joined Woolworths from Virgin Retail in 2002 as head of the entertainment business unit and was appointed director of commercial for entertainment, confectionery and events in 2006.

Jim has given Woolworths six years of great service and we wish him well. He has been a fantastic asset to the business and will be greatly missed,” said Woolworths managing director commercial and marketing Tony Page.