Eric Nicoli

Eric Luciano Nicoli, CBE (born 5 August 1950) was CEO of EMI Group plc between 12 January 2007 and August 2007, having previously been Executive Chairman of the group since July 1999.

In addition to his position at EMI, Nicoli has previously been Group Chief Executive of United Biscuits (Holdings) plc (1991 - 1999) and Non-Executive Chairman of HMV Group plc, The Tussauds Group Ltd and Vue Entertainment Ltd.

Nicoli was educated at Diss Grammar School and went on to graduate with a First Class degree in Physics from King's College London.

In July 2003, he received the honorary degree of Doctor of Engineering from Brunel University for his outstanding service to the local community. In 2006, he received the CBE for services to the music industry.

From 1972, Nicoli spent 27 years in the food manufacturing industry. While working in marketing for the confectionery company Rowntree's (previously owned by Rowntree Mackintosh), Nicoli spotted a gap in the market and filled it with two chocolate bars that have since become bestsellers: the Lion Bar and Yorkie.

From Rowntree’s Nicoli joined the multinational food manufacturer United Biscuits (UB) in 1980 where he spent the next 9 years progressing through the ranks, with positions including: Marketing Director of UK Biscuits from 1980, Group Business Planning Director from 1984, Managing Director of UB Frozen Foods from 1985, Managing Director of UB Brands from 1986.

In 1989 he became Chief Executive of the company’s European operations before stepping up to be Group Chief Executive in 1991, a role he held until April 1999 when he moved to EMI.

Nicoli first joined EMI in the capacity of Non-Executive Director in July 1993 and became an Executive Director on May 1, 1999 shortly before being appointed Executive Chairman. He left EMI in August 2007 when the company was sold to private equity group Terra Firma.

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