MUMBAI: Reed MIDEM CEO Paul Zilk was named Officer dans l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres (Officer of the Order of Arts and Letters) by the French Minister of Culture and Communications, Christine Albanel.

The French cultural award is given in recognition of outstanding contributions to the arts in France and around the world. Making the presentation in Cannes during MIDEM, the world’s music market, Albanel described Zilk as "a respected marketing executive who is, above all, truly passionate about music. I salute a true creator. You are one of the principal architects of the success of MIDEM."

"I’m honoured to receive this award and would like to share it with my colleagues at Reed MIDEM. For over 40 years, our company has sought to help the entertainment business, particularly in music and television, develop around the world. This is our commitment to the arts and it is as strong as ever," said Zilk.

"Paul has shown all of us just how important it is to keep focused on our clients. Under his stewardship, Reed MIDEM has done an outstanding job as a business facilitator to the industries it serves, notably in the international music and television sectors. I am delighted that he has been honored by the French government," noted Reed Exhibitions chairman Mike Rusbridge.

Zilk joined Reed MIDEM in September 2001 as managing director before being appointed CEO in January 2003.