TikTok has appointed Ollie Wards as its first Director of Music for Australia and New Zealand.

Soon to join after a ten-year career at triple j Wards' appointment comes as part of TikTok’s growth strategy in the region and builds on the platform's impact on music consumption both locally and around the globe.

Joining TikTok at the end of the month, Ward will drive the music strategy for the platform locally, overseeing emerging and established artists and their role within TikTok's creator community.

He will be responsible for building partnerships with local artists, talent managers, record labels and distributors to execute successful campaigns and build music careers, across Australia and New Zealand.

With labels now utilising the app as an A&R pool for emerging artists and as a launchpad for new chart hits, Ollie's role will be pivotal in establishing TikTok's home in the Kiwi and Australian music ecosystem.