2025 AMCOS election candidates
Gabe Andrews, Precise Digital Ltd
BIOGRAPHY
Gabe is Head of Publishing at Precise Digital, an independent music services company based in Tāmaki Makaurau, Aotearoa New Zealand. With a strong focus on the Pacific, Precise not only represents songwriters based in Aotearoa but from all across the region including Samoa, Tonga, Fiji, the Solomon Islands and Australia.
Melbourne-born and musically obsessed, his start in the music industry was in media and community radio. A volunteering stint at Auckland's 95bFM was particularly formative in becoming involved in New Zealand's music scene.
Prior to joining Precise Digital, Gabe worked at APRA AMCOS NZ for over five years in the licensing and membership departments, developing a comprehensive understanding of APRA and AMCOS' operations.
ELECTION STATEMENT
Precise is an independently owned and operated music company, proudly based in Aotearoa New Zealand. Our artist and songwriter partners are at the heart of everything we do, and this commitment has enabled us to build close, enduring relationships that support their creative and professional growth.
As a New Zealand-based music publisher with a global outlook, representing independent songwriters across the Pacific, I offer a fresh and inclusive perspective to the board’s important work of protecting copyright and maximising remuneration for all AMCOS members.
My knowledge of AMCOS at an operational level, as well as being a songwriter member, coupled with my experience establishing Precise’s publishing division, positions me to contribute meaningfully to discussions on the challenges and opportunities faced by mechanical rights holders today.
Marianna Annas, Universal Music Publishing Group Australia (Incumbent Alternate Director)
BIOGRAPHY
Currently Vice President, Commercial & Creative at Universal Music Publishing. Marianna previously served as Director of the APRA and AMCOS boards between 2012 and 2020 and was then appointed Alternate Publisher Director for both boards in 2020.
She is an experienced music lawyer, formerly at Simpsons Solicitors where she predominantly represented songwriters, composers, producers and recording artists. She has also held senior legal and business affairs roles at major record labels and music publishers including BMG Australia, BMG in New York and EMI Music Australia, and was Head of ABC Music Publishing before it was acquired by UMP. She has a deep passion for great song writing and a long-standing commitment to working with Australian songwriting talent. Marianna devised and has lectured the Entertainment Law and Contract Negotiation and Commercial Skills courses at AIM and is a published author of essays on the remix culture, sampling and copyright and creators’ digital rights.
Marianna holds degrees in Arts and Law from the University of New South Wales.
In 2023 she was awarded the Australian Women in Music Award (AWMA) for Music Leadership.
ELECTION STATEMENT
Songwriting is the heartland of the music business. Music publishers are gifted with working with, supporting and championing the ongoing recognition of great Australian songs and songwriters. I am proudly aligned with Universal Music Publishing’s global mantra: ‘songwriters first’. I am equally committed to supporting our screen composer community, their unique artistry and the distinctive challenges it presents.
I’m currently UMP’s alternate director on the AMCOS board and previously served as an AMCOS board director as head of ABC Music Publishing. The rights management landscape has never been more mercurial. AMCOS carries the important responsibility of reconciling the challenges of a constantly evolving market, informed by both industry dynamics and existential forces with the upsides of embracing change in a way which is creative, protective and progressive.
AMCOS’ core role is to license the reproduction right and to ensure the efficient collection and distribution of maximized income in the best interests of songwriters and music publishers. To this extent the future of collective and unilateral licensing in its various iterations must be agile yet vigilant, respecting the creative and commercial rights of rightsholders and building a sound foundation for new generations of songwriters, composers and music publishers.
Dr Robert Burke
BIOGRAPHY
Robert Burke is an internationally acclaimed composer, performer, and researcher with a career spanning more than 40 years across jazz, popular, improvisation, experimental, new, and classical music. He has performed internationally at major festivals and venues, released 17 albums under his own name, and contributed (performance-composition) to over 300 recordings, including The Black Sorrows, Kate Ceberano, Paul Grabowsky, George Lewis, and Hermeto Pascoal. His work blends improvisation, composition, and performance, positioning him at the forefront of multiple musical traditions.
As an Associate Professor at Monash University, Robert’s research investigates creativity, copyright, ethics, and the intersection of composition and improvisation. He leads the ARC-funded project Diversifying Music in Australia, the first national study of gender equity in jazz and improvisation. His research actively informs practice, shaping how musicians, educators, and institutions approach practice, composition and creativity.
Robert is the President and founder of the Australasian Jazz and Improvisation Research Network (AJIRN), creating platforms for collaboration and research dissemination across Oceania and Asia. He has served as Head of School and Head of Jazz and Improvisation Studies at Monash University. A member of APRA for 35 years and AMCOS for 21, he brings deep industry knowledge and strong advocacy for creators’ rights.
ELECTION STATEMENT
Music today is more global, diverse, and fast-changing than ever before. My goal is to contribute to AMCOS’ mission of protecting the mechanical rights of creators while embracing innovation and new opportunities. I bring a distinctive perspective as a composer and performer who has worked internationally across diverse genres of music, including pop, jazz, improvisation, and experimental music, as well as classical, film, and jingles, which gives me insight into the realities of writers working across multiple markets.
Alongside this practical knowledge, I offer deep research expertise in creativity, copyright, and ethics. This enables me to bring evidence-based thinking to AMCOS decision-making, particularly as technologies such as AI reshape music creation, streaming evolves, and as mechanical licensing and royalty distribution face new pressures.
If elected, I will advocate for sustainable licensing models, transparent and equitable royalty systems, and strong educational initiatives that support members in navigating this changing environment. Drawing on my research expertise, I will bring evidence-based approaches that can help drive meaningful change in government policy. I am also committed to advancing diversity and inclusion so that composers, songwriters, and publishers can thrive creatively and financially in a rapidly evolving industry.
Clive Hodson, Perfect Pitch Publishing (Incumbent Director)
BIOGRAPHY
Non-executive Director since 2016, Clive Hodson is the Owner and Managing Director of Perfect Pitch Publishing, a full-service music publishing and licensing company based in Perth, with additional offices in Queensland. Representing both local and international songwriters and catalogues, Perfect Pitch plays a vital role in supporting and developing Australian writers both nationally and internationally.
Clive has served as a Board Director of the Australasian Music Publishers Association Limited (AMPAL) since 2009, where he currently Chair. He is also Vice Chair of FolkWorld Inc (Fairbridge Festival WA). Clive has held senior executive roles as Head of Music at the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), General Manager of Shock Music Publishing and Director of A&R and Marketing at PolyGram/Universal. Clive is a senior accredited lecturer in Music Publishing (Certificate of Education from the London School of Teachers (UNSW) and has lectured at the Australian Institute of Music (AIM), North Metropolitan TAFE, and the WAAPA. Clive is an APRA registered multi-instrumentalist/writer and has been a Justice of the Peace since 2007 in both NSW & WA.
Clive is also an Associated Member of the Institute of Community Directors Australia (AMICDA) and a Peer Assessor for Creative Australia, DLGSC, and Regional Arts Australia.
ELECTION STATEMENT
Appointed to the AMCOS Board in 2016 and elevated to Deputy Chair in 2023, Clive has been a strong advocate for the recognition and inclusion of all writers and publishers. His commitment to equity and representation has been especially impactful in championing the voices of songwriters from his home state of Western Australia.
Clive brings a valuable combination of industry insight, publisher and writer advocacy, and forward-thinking leadership that is essential to navigating today’s rapidly evolving music landscape. Clive understands the challenges that songwriters, composers, and publishers face—especially in the age of digital streaming and rapidly advancing challenges that AI presents for song writers’ rights. Clive ‘s ongoing belief in innovation, equity, and a stronger future for all rights holders is what drives his desire to represent writers and publishers on the AMCOS board.
Theo Seffusatti, Heard & Seen Publishing
BIOGRAPHY
Theo Seffusatti has 23 years of international experience working across Copyright, Royalties, A&R, Sync and Legal/Business Affairs including founding Warp Publishing, creating a leading independent music publishing company with offices in London and Los Angeles, which won Publisher of the Year at the 2025 Libera Awards.
In 2002, he joined Warp Records in London and became successively Head of Royalties, Business Affairs and Sync. He then set up the sister publishing company Warp Publishing, with direct membership of 18 collection societies and a network of 10 sub-publishing partners, building a roster including Slowdive, PVT, Nightmares on Wax, Khruangbin, Death Grips, Danny Brown, Boards of Canada, Dry Cleaning, Tinariwen and songwriting credits including Fred Again, Lorde, PinkPantheress, Björk, Jay-Z, Coldplay, and The Weeknd.
He relocated to Aotearoa New Zealand in 2022, continues as Managing Director of Warp Publishing, and co-founded Heard & Seen Publishing in NZ, joining APRA, AMCOS and AMPAL. The NZ roster currently represents over 20 artists including Silver Scroll Award Winning screen composers Karl Steven, Arli Liberman and Grayson Gilmour and songwriters Erny Belle, Ariana Tikao, LEAO, Theia and Rob Thorne.
He holds an MSc Law and Economics from Mines Paris Tech.
ELECTION STATEMENT
It would be an honour to be appointed, bringing my extensive international experience to complement the rich local knowledge of others.
I have worked in the UK, US and France for 23 years, founding and developing two publishing companies, with 17 years as a direct member of 18 collection societies worldwide.
I am in touch with my European and American counterparts daily, and travel extensively to support them, so we can respond quickly to evolving trends in our industry.
I co-founded Heard & Seen Publishing to champion and support the amazing talent of local writers here and globally. I am also on a 3-year journey learning te reo Māori, the Māori language.
The key benefits I would seek for all members would be:
- defending copyright;
- increasing royalties;
- distributing fairly with full transparency.
I would be honoured to use these experiences and skills for the benefit of AMCOS members.
I acknowledge the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Custodians of Country throughout Australia and pay my respects to them, their Culture and their Elders past, present and future. I also acknowledge Māori as tangata whenua and Treaty of Waitangi partners in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Simon Moor, Kobalt Music Publishing APAC (Incumbent Director)
BIOGRAPHY
Simon Moor, Managing Director of Kobalt Music Publishing APAC has served on the AMCOS Board since 2013. He is also a non-executive Director of APRA and a board member of AMPAL, reflecting his deep involvement in the Australian and international music publishing industry.
Simon founded Kobalt Music Publishing in Australia and New Zealand in 2010, focusing on developing local talent for global success. Under his leadership, the company worked with renowned artists such as Gotye, Tim Minchin, Tones And I, and Dean Lewis. Today, Kobalt’s roster includes artists like Royel Otis, G Flip, Parkway Drive, and Tash Sultana.
In 2016, Simon expanded Kobalt into Asia, establishing operations in Hong Kong and drafting business plans for key markets across the region. He formed strategic partnerships with companies like NetEase Cloud Music and Tencent Music Entertainment, while fostering relationships with performing rights organizations throughout Asia. His deep understanding of local music industries has been critical to Kobalt’s growth and success.
Simon’s career reflects a commitment to supporting artists and songwriters, with a focus on innovation and long-term success across both the Australian, New Zealand and broader global markets.
ELECTION STATEMENT
During my time on the AMCOS board, I drew on my extensive experience in the music industry, particularly in music publishing, and my board expertise from serving on the APRA and AMPAL boards since 2021 and 2012, respectively. Now seeking re-election, I am well-positioned to continue contributing and building on the progress made, further enhancing AMCOS’ success and growth, while bringing a deeper understanding of the risks and challenges the organisation faces.
As Managing Director of Kobalt Music APAC, my focus has always been on supporting local songwriters and rights owners, ensuring they thrive both locally and globally. I understand the critical role of a fair and efficient performance rights organisation in achieving this success.
Kobalt’s core values—fair remuneration, transparency, and inclusiveness—are closely aligned with those of AMCOS. Having established Kobalt on these principles, I am confident my expertise will continue to contribute meaningfully to AMCOS’ ongoing development.
In these unprecedented times, strong governance, strategic foresight, and sound management are essential. I am fully committed to using my experience to drive improved outcomes and advocate for the best interests of songwriters, publishers, and rights owners. It would be an honour to continue serving AMCOS.
Craig Redfearn, ORiGin Music Group
BIOGRAPHY
Craig is the Chief Operating Office of the ORiGiN Music Publishing, role he has had for over two years. Craig has over twenty years of global music experience across almost all facets of the industry including publishing, record labels, artist management, media and venues.
This extensive experience ensures Craig maintains a holistic approach to working with artists.
Prior to ORiGiN, Craig was a key part of the creation and development of the highly successful record label for BMG – with involvement in artist signing, creation of systems and processes, as well as extensive international marketing and branding for the roster. Craig held the role for over seven years.
Over the past two years at ORiGiN Music Publishing, Craig has implemented significant change to the company, including nearly doubling of the writers signed to the company. Recent signings include Ninajiachi, Yours Truly, Crocodylus, Le Shiv, Dizzy Days, Sam Lockwood and Heather Shannon (The Jezabels), Jay Bainbridge (Boo Seeka, Golding), Nic Manders, Phebe Starr and Salarymen.
Craig was instrumental in setting up a Production Music company at ORiGiN, securing eleven international and one local catalogue to sub-publish in ANZ.
ELECTION STATEMENT
It is an honour to stand for the AMCOS Board. My commitment to protecting and championing ANZ songwriters aligns with the board's core mission.
Throughout my career across publishing, record labels, artist management, media and venues, one truth remains constant: songwriters and their compositions are fundamental to everything we do.
Over the past two years as COO at ORiGiN, I have led transformational growth. My hands-on approach has nearly doubled our writer roster, with signings including Ninajirachi, Yours Truly, Heather Shannon & Sam Lockwood (The Jezabels), Jay Bainbridge (Boo Seeka, Golding), The Stamps, Phebe Starr and L-FRESH The Lion.
I also spearheaded ORiGiN's Production Music company, POST, securing eleven international and one local catalogue for ANZ representation—reinforcing ORiGiN's mission to be an active music company across the region.
With over two decades spanning multiple music industry sectors, I bring comprehensive experience and strategic branding expertise. This operational acumen has been essential in establishing ORiGiN as a modern, progressive publishing force.
My conviction that songwriters deserve the strongest possible advocacy and support is unwavering. I am committed to contributing meaningfully to the board while continuing to learn from its exceptional members.
