Sony Music boss Denis Handlin honoured

He has worked at one of Australia's largest music entertainment companies for almost half a century.

But Denis Handlin's impressive career span at Sony Australia is not the only reason for his most recent accolade - appointed an Officer in the Order of Australia (AO).

Chuffed by the honour, the Sony Australia chief executive and chairman has also been acknowledged for his service in leadership and mentoring roles as a support of young artists.

"It's all about music and people first," Handlin said.

"I have been lucky to have made a career out of a hobby."

Outside of work, Handlin plays a strong role in the community and is the founding member of the Sony Foundation of Australia, which has raised closed to $27 million since 1998 for youth bases charitable causes.

"I simply love mentoring young people who have a passion for the business and helping artists realise their career dreams," he said.

"It is a real honour."

Now in his 47th year with the company, Handlin has over the years helped foster the careers of many of Australia's most successful artists, including Midnight Oil, John Farnham, Daryl Braithwaite, Men at Work, Tina Arena and most recently Amy Shark.

But the Sony boss is no stranger to accolades, having been awarded the Member of the Order of Australia (AM), in recognition of his service to the music industry and charitable organisations, in the Australia Day 2005 Honours List.

He was also awarded the ARIA industry Icon Award in 2014 by friend Molly Meldrum and Sony pop star Jessica Mauboy.