Dear Jo Joins Live Nation

One of the live industry’s worst kept secrets is out- Live Nation has appointed former UK Music Chief Executive Jo Dipple as SVP, public affairs.

Dipple stepped down from UK Music in June this year after five years in the role, having previously acted as strategic advisor to the Prime Minister at Number Ten.  Prior to working in Government, Dipple represented regional and national newspapers at Trinity Mirror and edited the “Dear Jo” page of the Daily Mirror.

President of concerts for Live Nation Europe John Reid 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 added effusively: “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”.

Interesting timing for the appointment, considering that the role will also span Live Nation’s ticketing interests- Live Nation owns two of the ‘big four’ secondary ticketing sites and has been under fire from Government and the FanFair alliance campaign. The company is also under investigation by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) regarding its acquisition of the Isle of Wight Festival.