Jason Upright
University Place,WA
Summary
Dynamic leader with over 20 years of expertise in client relationship management, marketing, and business operations. Skilled in driving revenue growth, managing complex projects, and negotiating high-stakes contracts to achieve strategic objectives. Proven track record of collaborating with Fortune 500 companies and industry professionals to optimize operational systems and enhance customer experiences. Committed to fostering innovation and delivering measurable results in fast-paced environments.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
Work History
Investigations Specialist
Clarium Investigations
01.2015 - 01.2019
- Conducted criminal, civil, and fraud investigations for a private investigation firm, performing field research, covert surveillance, background checks, interviews, and online investigations.
- Collaborated with law enforcement agencies and utilized databases to collect critical data, enhancing investigative processes.
- Applied analytical skills in reviewing complex information to identify relevant facts, patterns, and inconsistencies.
- Prepared detailed investigative reports, clearly communicating findings to clients and legal stakeholders to support decision-making.
- Maintained discretion and professionalism while handling sensitive and confidential information in high-stakes situations, ensuring trust and integrity.
- Provided expert testimony in court proceedings, supporting prosecution efforts with clear and concise explanations of findings.
General Manager, Firehouse Recording Studios
DMI Music & Media Solutions
01.2010 - 01.2015
- Promoted into leadership of an elite, five-star recording studio based on demonstrated leadership ability and success building client relationships.
- Directed studio sales, business development, marketing, operations, scheduling, budgets, invoicing, facilities management, and client relations.
- Supervised a staff of four and managed close relationships with Grammy Award-winning musicians and engineers, Academy Award-winning actors and producers, and major entertainment companies.
- Cultivated strong relationships with clients, vendors, and partners to ensure long-term success and loyalty.
- Prospected and acquired new clients including Paramount Pictures, NFL Films, and Jerry Bruckheimer Films.
- Oversaw budget management, streamlined operational systems and policies to maximize efficiency and profitability.
- Developed and implemented strategies for alternative revenue streams to increase sales.
- Created training programs to elevate staff performance and improve overall productivity.
- Planned and executed social media content, live and virtual events, and cross-promotional events to elevate brand presence and engage clients.
Production Manager, Branding & Operations
DMI Music & Media Solutions
01.2007 - 01.2010
- Managed the development and execution of marketing assets and production initiatives for an award-winning music and entertainment agency.
- Spearheaded all physical and digital production of campaigns for prominent brands including General Mills, AARP, Pottery Barn, Beam Global Spirits, U.S. Army, in addition to company’s in-house record label featuring works by Aretha Franklin and Natalie Cole.
- Oversaw production schedules, lead times, quality benchmarks, and inventory logistics for multiple projects, ensuring timely and efficient delivery.
- Served as primary liaison among agency designers, artists, vendors, venues, and internal stakeholders to facilitate collaboration and streamline communication.
- Partnered with cross-functional teams to formulate innovative strategies for Kohl's, Delta, Lucky Brand Jeans, Build-A-Bear Workshop, and Starwood Hotels.
- Assessed quality, cost, and delivery objectives regularly, ensuring completion of projects under budget.
- Launched employee eco team that reduced waste levels and increased energy efficiency, contributing to cost savings for the company.
Director of Artist Relations/Marketing
Century Media Records, a Sony Company
01.2005 - 01.2007
- Facilitated development and launch of Abacus Recordings, a subsidiary label featuring acclaimed independent artists across multiple genres.
- Scouted talent, negotiated contracts, and signed new artists while functioning as chief contact for collaboration with artists, managers, producers, agents, attorneys, and distributors.
- Managed project lifecycle from concept to completion, guaranteeing alignment with label objectives and timelines while upholding artist's creative vision.
- Formulated comprehensive branding strategies, including budgets and P&Ls, for music-video initiatives, tour promotions, online campaigns, and merchandising programs to optimize visibility.
- Coordinated efforts with sales departments, publicity agencies, production design teams, and international distribution partners to elevate exposure and achieve successful market entry.
- Assisted in developing and executing label’s inaugural branded U.S. tour.
Senior Coordinator, Catalog Sales & Marketing
EMI Music
01.2003 - 01.2005
- Appointed by SVP of Sales and Marketing to join EMI's catalog department and drive growth into company's top-grossing U.S. division.
- Facilitated sales product development, licensing, marketing promotions, packaging, and launch execution across roughly 35 projects each year.
- Coordinated release efforts for high-profile album launches by iconic artists including the Beatles, David Bowie, Beach Boys, Bob Seger, Pink Floyd, Frank Sinatra, achieving highest sales in the division's history.
- Managed P&L formulation and implemented marketing initiatives for campaigns with budgets spanning $10,000 to $1 million.
- Executed production of marketing copy and promotional materials, coordinating television advertising spots, sizzle reels, and other campaign assets.
Senior Coordinator, Artist Development
EMI Music
01.2000 - 01.2003
- Central point of contact for distributed labels, sales departments, marketing managers, artist development representatives, and retail partners nationwide to elevate operational efficiency and refine communication channels.
- Crafted and launched strategic initiatives to elevate artist promotion and marketing tactics for emerging artists linked to Capitol, Virgin, Astralwerks, and Blue Note.
- Catalyzed early growth and commercial achievement of groundbreaking artists including Radiohead, Coldplay, and Norah Jones.
- Joined forces with business development to assess and analyze potential new labels for distribution.
- Conceived successful CD sampler series and directed its quarterly production in role as A&R representative and project manager.
Label Manager
Revelation Records
01.1997 - 01.2000
- Oversaw daily operations for internationally recognized independent punk and rock label during peak growth period.
- Managed complete artist roster while overseeing all label personnel encompassing publicity, radio, art/design, and production.
- Served as the face of the label while collaborating with artists, producers, attorneys, managers, agents, vendors, and business partners.
- Identified and recruited fresh talent to strengthen label's roster. Successfully negotiated contracts while managing all licensing activities. Achieved milestone by signing label’s top-selling new act in twenty years.
- Crafted comprehensive release schedules, budgets, and marketing strategies for 15–20 annual projects.
Education
High School Diploma -
Newburyport High School
Newburyport, MASkills
- Microsoft Word
- Ethical and honest
- Social Media
- Research
- Report Writing
- Client Service
- Conflict Resolution
- French
Timeline
Investigations Specialist
Clarium Investigations
01.2015 - 01.2019
General Manager, Firehouse Recording Studios
DMI Music & Media Solutions
01.2010 - 01.2015
Production Manager, Branding & Operations
DMI Music & Media Solutions
01.2007 - 01.2010
Director of Artist Relations/Marketing
Century Media Records, a Sony Company
01.2005 - 01.2007
Senior Coordinator, Catalog Sales & Marketing
EMI Music
01.2003 - 01.2005
Senior Coordinator, Artist Development
EMI Music
01.2000 - 01.2003
Label Manager
Revelation Records
01.1997 - 01.2000
High School Diploma -
Newburyport High School