Patrick Lemanski, currently Managing Director of Harmonia Mundi UK, has been named the new Head of Classics, Warner Music UK. A much-respected record company executive with a proven track record at Harmonia Mundi, Lemanski will lead the Kensington-based operation that markets and distributes the Warner Classics label (incorporating EMI and its sub-labels) and Erato (formerly Virgin Classics). The President of Warner Classics, Alain Lanceron, made the announcement at a Christmas party at Warner Music’s London offices. 'As Warner Classics continues to grow,' he said, 'Patrick will make a tremendous addition to our team and we look forward to his leadership of our UK arm.'

Lemanski, a French citizen, has been with Harmonia Mundi for the past 19 years: before joining the UK company in January 2007, he was International Marketing Manager, based at HM’s Arles office (1999-2006) and, before that, Sales Director France (1997-99) and International Export Manager (1995-97). 'Having worked for many years in the classical music industry, I have always admired [Warner Classics'] prestigious catalogue. I am also very attracted by their resolute embrace of new, ambitious projects. I look forward to contributing to the company's continued success and leadership.'

Both Harmonia Mundi and Virgin Classics have received Gramophone's Label of the Year accolade, and Lanceron was given a Special Achievement Award in 2013 for his outstanding contribution to classical music on record.