Los Angeles-based Activist Artists Management expands its focus on Asia and appoints industry veteran Jonathan Heeter as Head of Asia for Activist.
Heeter is tasked with identifying and maximizing opportunities for Activist’s clients in Asia, and in particular Greater China, where Activist says he has more than two decades of experience in “representing major labels, global artists and iconic brands”.
The activist list consists of recording artists, actors, entertainment and media brands including The Lumineers, Alec Benjamin, Empire of the Sun, Grateful Dead, Dead & Company *, Bobby Weir, Dwight Yoakam, Brittney Spencer, Michael Franti & Spearhead and all Elite wrestling.
Heeter, who speaks fluent Mandarin after living in China for more than 20 years, has a deep knowledge of the Asian market from working in key leadership roles.
At Dentsu, he worked as a senior strategist, according to Activist, “helping Chinese multinationals develop and implement omni-channel and branding campaigns across China and Asia-Pacific.”
Activist also says Heeter helped guitar brand Fender build a D2C business in China.
Heeter’s experience in the music business includes running the international division at Warner Music China.
Activist says his initial focus will be on positioning the company’s customers “to take advantage of the next wave of digital innovation in Asia” and “unlocking added value for artists and brands in e-commerce, physical retail, IP creation and consumer engagement “.
Heeter’s additional experience in China includes running his own in-store marketing consulting firm, where he helped launch Shangri-La Beer, a craft brewery in northern Yunnan Province that provides employment to graduates from a local orphanage.
His agency also developed creative campaigns for Adidas, CHAO Hotels and the Chinese fintech brand Lancaiwang.
“He has a proven track record in Asia and has maintained high-level deep relationships throughout the region, making him the perfect person to identify, support and expand our business.”
Bernie Cahill, activist
“Jonathan has over 20 years of first-hand experience in China, where he built significant companies and brands,” said Bernie Cahill, founding partner of Activist.
“He has a proven track record in Asia and has maintained high-level deep relationships throughout the region, making him the perfect person to identify, support and expand our business.”
“I’m excited to join the Activist team and help provide value to our customers in one of the most exciting entertainment markets in the world.”
Jonathan Heeter
Heeter said: “I’m excited to join the Activist team and help provide value to our customers in one of the most exciting entertainment markets in the world.
“The growth potential across the region, including China, Korea and Southeast Asia, is huge, and I look forward to bringing expanded opportunities to our entire list and a select few new customers.”Music business worldwide
