EXECUTIVE CHANGES 1998-12-07

Universal Music Names Senior VP

ong-time video industry executive Richard Longwell has joined Universal Music & Video Distributors here as senior vice president of sales and distribution. He succeeds Dan Gant, who left the company last summer, and reports to Craig Kornblau, executive vice president and general manager.

Longwell is responsible for sell-through and rental sales in all distribution channels, including supermarkets, mass merchants, wholesale clubs, drug stores, and video and music specialty stores.

Longwell joins Universal from MGM Home Entertainment, Santa Monica, Calif., where he held the title of senior vice president and general manager, international. Prior to that, he was senior vice president of sales and distribution for Buena Vista Home Video, Burbank, Calif.

"We are very fortunate to have this highly respected and seasoned executive join our growing distribution staff at this exciting time in Universal's history," said Kornblau. "Having worked with Dick at Buena Vista for many years, I know he will bring a fresh approach and incredible expertise to our ongoing strategic efforts to become the No. 1 home-entertainment supplier."