John Reid

Based in London, John Reid oversees WMG’s European affiliates as well as the UK divisions of Atlantic, Rhino and Warner Bros. He is also responsible for WMG’s business in the Middle East and Africa and has overall responsibility for WMG’s content and marketing outside the US.

He joined WMG in 2000, running WEA London Records before taking on various senior roles in International Marketing. In 2006 he was named Vice Chairman, Warner Music International and in early 2007 was appointed to his current position. He has played a critical role in the international marketing of US superstars including Michael Bublé, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Madonna and Linkin Park. He was also instrumental in achieving global prominence for many European-based artists such as Muse, James Blunt, David Gray, Paolo Nutini, Laura Pausini and Miguel Bosé. Under his leadership, WM Europe has evolved its expanded rights strategy and broadened the range of services it offers its artists. Through key hires, partnerships and acquisitions, Reid has helped to develop WMG’s impressive digital footprint as well as the company’s diversification into growth revenue streams such as merchandise, touring and artist management.

In the Evening Standard’s 2007, 2008 and 2009 lists of ‘London’s Most Influential People’, Reid was recognized as one of London’s most important music industry figures.

Prior to joining Warner Music, John held roles as President of Island Def Jam Records USA, Chairman & CEO of PolyGram Canada (including PolyGram Music and Filmed Entertainment), and International Marketing Director at London Records, which was then part of the PolyGram Group. Early in his career, he was an Artist Manager and Tour & Production Manager, working with bands including The Beastie Boys and Run DMC. Reid holds a degree in Business from Trinity College Dublin.