Northeastern trustee Lucian Grainge knighted

He is chairman and CEO of Universal Music Group and a member of Northeastern University’s Board of Trustees. And now he is Sir Lucian Grainge.

Earlier this month Queen Elizabeth II conferred the knighthood upon Grainge for his accomplishments and leadership in the music industry and to British business, particularly during challenging times. Grainge was recognized in Queen Elizabeth’s 90th Birthday Honours list, which noted that he is “one of the most accomplished music executives and foremost leaders in the media industry where content meets technology.”

“It is with enormous pride that I receive this honour from Her Majesty the Queen,” Grainge said in a statement. “It is a recognition of British music’s significance to the U.K.’s culture and economy, its role in inspiring investment, and the contribution of incredible creative talent from around the world.”

A British citizen, Grainge has spent his entire career in the music industry. He joined Universal Music in 1986, and throughout his career he has signed and worked with many global stars including Elton John, Jay Z, Katy Perry, Queen, Rihanna, The Rolling Stones, U2, and Amy Winehouse. His impact on the music industry has been felt worldwide, as he’s expanded Universal Music’s global presence by developing innovative business models as well as technology and media partnerships around the globe. He was named the most powerful executive in the music business in Billboard Magazine’s “Power 100” list in 2016, 2015, and 2013.

“The entire Northeastern University community is honored by this recognition of Sir Lucian’s achievements and his stature on the world stage,” said President Joseph E. Aoun.

Grainge was recognized in Britain’s New Years Honors and awarded Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 2010, made an Officier des Arts et Lettres by the French Government in 2011, and appointed by U.K. Prime Minister David Cameron as a British Business Ambassador in 2013.

He joined Northeastern’s Board of Trustees in 2013, and is a member of the financial affairs committee. He has provided guidance on the university’s global initiatives and served as a key strategist for the board’s recent meetings in London.