Joie Manda Named President of Def Jam

Def Jam has finally found their man to take the coveted position of president—a role that has been vacant since Roc Nation CEO Jay-Z stepped down in December 2007. Joie Manda was appointed president of Def Jam Recordings according to Island Def Jam Music Group Chairman/CEO Barry Weiss and AllAccess.com.

Weiss reports that Manda is the only person for the job naming him one of the most respected executives in music today. "As we look to expand Def Jam and our creative urban music activities even further, there is no one better to lead them than Joie," Weiss said. "He has emerged as one of the most respected young executives in today’s Urban music landscape, possessing all the qualifications and experience that are essential to run Def Jam, the world’s most important hip-hop destination."

Manda humbly accepted his new position at the affluent record company but admits that this new role may be a huge leap from prior career positions he has held. "Running Def Jam is the greatest challenge of my career," Manda said. "I am appreciative of Barry Weiss for his faith in appointing me to this position. I’m excited to work alongside Steve Bartels, who is one of the most talented music execs in the business and who has played such an important role in building IDJ [Island Def Jam] team."

Manda comes to Def Jam by way of Warner Bros. Records where he served as EVP of Urban Music. He joins the ranks of past Def Jam presidents such as Jay Z, Lyor Cohen and Kevin Liles. -- Johnathan Cruse