Ghost's 20 months at the helm of the Sony imprint - the experiment ended last Christmas - has left a strong impression on the self-styled maverick songwriter, who is best known for co-authoring James Blunt's You're Beautiful.

But the challenge of running Epic has also helped the composer shape her future plans - and they do not involve a quick return as a major-label executive.

Since leaving Epic, Ghost has spent time in the studio with Florence Welch and John ...