Virgin Music Group Names New COO as Downtown Deal Finalizes

Virgin Music Group has named Pieter van Rijn as its new Chief Operating Officer. van Rijn was previously CEO of Downtown Music Holdings and enters this new position as Virgin’s acquisition of Downtown is completed.

Background:

• After months of deliberation and pushback from the independent music sector, the European Commission gave clearance for Virgin to acquire Downtown.

• Downtown Founder Justin Kalifowitz will exit the company.

• Andrew Bergman, the former Chairman of Downtown, will take on a new senior advisory role.

What they said:

• van Rijn: “This combination enhances the choice, service, and global reach available to the independent community. I’m grateful to Justin and Andrew for their vision in building Downtown, and to Nat and JT for their trust as we enter this next chapter. Our focus is clear: strengthen what makes both companies special and deliver even greater value to the entrepreneurs we serve.”

• Virgin Co-CEO JT Myers: “Today recognizes the extraordinary company the Downtown team has built. Justin’s pioneering spirit — and the leadership of Andrew, Pieter, and colleagues worldwide — created an organization defined by its powerful belief in independent creators. We deeply respect what this team has built and are committed to backing it, protecting what makes Downtown successful, and expanding opportunities for the global independent community.”

• Virgin Co-CEO Nat Pastor: “Pieter’s appointment signals our intent to bring these businesses together thoughtfully and strategically. This is about making both Virgin Music Group and Downtown even better — preserving their distinct strengths while increasing the investment, technology and global resources available to independent entrepreneurs. Pieter’s experience and leadership make him the right person to help guide us forward.”