In what’s likely to be one of 2012’s big music industry transfers, Warner Music CEO John Reid has ended his 11-year tenure with the company and joined Live Nation as their EU President of Concerts.

“We’re delighted to have John join us at a time of exciting growth for Live Nation,” the company’s European CEO Simon Lewis tells UK trade bible Music Week. “His pedigree speaks for itself and he is an immensely valuable talent to have with us as we continue to develop our business across Europe.

“John will be pivotal in broadening our touring artist portfolio and strengthening our show marketing capabilities as we head into what we expect to be another strong year.”

A native of Belfast, Reid studied at Trinity College where he had a stint as Ents Officer. After that he managed northern contenders Silent Running and then had spells at Atlantic, PolyGram Canada and Def Jam before rising through the Warners ranks. Among the acts he worked closely with were Madonna, Green Day, Michael Bublé, Muse and UK chart-topper Bruno Mars.