Music Rights & Licensing Clerk – Legal Focus, Stable Pay

About the Company

Universal Music Group (UMG) is the world leader in music-based entertainment, with a broad array of businesses engaged in recorded music, music publishing, merchandising, and audiovisual content in more than 60 countries. We identify and develop recording artists and songwriters, produce, distribute and promote the most critically acclaimed and commercially successful music in the world. Committed to artistic excellence, innovation, and integrity, UMG is a place where creativity, entrepreneurship, and collaboration thrive. Our team in Pearland, TX plays a crucial role in managing the intricate legal aspects of music rights and licensing.

Job Description

We are seeking a diligent and detail-oriented Music Rights & Licensing Clerk with a strong legal focus to join our dynamic team in Pearland, TX. This is an excellent entry-level opportunity for individuals passionate about the music industry and eager to develop a career in legal administration and rights management. The successful candidate will provide essential administrative and clerical support to our legal and business affairs department, specifically concerning music rights, clearances, and licensing agreements. This role offers a stable environment to learn the complexities of intellectual property in the entertainment sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with the preparation, review, and organization of music licensing agreements and related legal documents.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date databases of music rights, copyrights, and publishing information.
• Conduct research on music ownership, artist agreements, and copyright statuses.
• Facilitate communication between internal departments (A&R, marketing, finance) and external partners (artists, publishers, licensors) regarding rights inquiries.
• Support the legal team in tracking deadlines, managing correspondence, and preparing reports.
• Process and file legal documents, ensuring compliance with company policies and industry regulations.
• Assist in resolving minor rights disputes and escalating complex issues to legal counsel.
• Manage administrative tasks such as scheduling, data entry, and document management for the legal department.

Required Skills

• Strong organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Basic understanding of legal terminology and principles, particularly intellectual property or contract law.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion.
• A keen interest in the music industry and its legal frameworks.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate's degree or certificate in Legal Studies, Paralegal Studies, Music Business, or a related field.
• Previous administrative or clerical experience, especially in a legal or music industry setting.
• Familiarity with rights management software or databases.
• Understanding of copyright law specific to music.

Perks & Benefits

• Competitive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Paid time off and company holidays.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
• Opportunities for professional development and growth within the music industry.
• Employee assistance program.
• Vibrant and collaborative office environment.
• Access to exclusive company events and artist performances.

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