Warner to Tap Former Island Def Jam Exec

One month after leaving Universal Music Group, industry veteran Kevin Liles is expected to be named executive vice president for the competition -- Warner Music Group, sources said.

Liles, former president of Universal’s Island Def Jam unit, quit the label in July after clashing with its new chairman, Antonio Reid. Liles was hired for his new post by his former boss, Lyor Cohen, who exited Island Def Jam in January to run Warner’s domestic music division.

At Island Def Jam, Liles, 36, was instrumental in the success of such stars as Jay-Z, Hoobastank, Ludacris, Ja Rule, LL Cool J, DMX, Kanye West and Ashanti.

Chuck Philips