Live Nation has hired former UK Music chief executive Jo Dipple as its senior vice president, a role spanning Live Nation and Ticketmaster globally.
Dipple leaves her post at UK Music after five years with the music industry body.
During her time as chief executive, she led a successful judicial review against the UK Government, which blocked damaging legislation that would have disadvantaged artists and rights-holders.
She helped progress the Live Music Act, established an industry-wide apprenticeship scheme, built up a wealth of new music business economic data and launched pan-industry diversity initiatives.
Formerly, Dipple worked as a strategic developer for then-British Prime Minister Gordon Brown and was a special adviser at the Treasury.
John Reid, president of concerts for Live Nation Europe said: “Jo has remarkable credentials in the music industry, with an unrivalled level of expertise in her field. It is great to have her join the business at a time where live entertainment continues to go from strength to strength, helping us to grow our brand across the world.”
Dipple said: “Live Nation Entertainment is the world leader in delivering live entertainment. I am joining a hugely talented team of people, all of whom are passionate about fan and artist satisfaction across the world. I look forward to contributing to its continued success.”
Meanwhile, HARD events founder Gary Richards has left Live Nation, which acquired his concert brand back in 2012.
Richards – known by his stage name Destructo – launched HARD in 2007 and built it into a festival brand hosting 150,000 EDM and electro house music fans. This year’s weak ticket sales forced the event to be moved to a smaller venue.
Live Nation have made the decision not to renew Richards’ contract after it recent expiry, and will take on full ownership of HARD’s flagship events, including Holy Ship! And HARD Summer.