Darcus Beese, President of Island Records in the US, is leaving the label.

Universal Music Group has confirmed Beese’s exit. A statement from UMG confirms that the British exec is returning to the UK “for personal reasons and to pursue new career opportunities”.

The news was first reported by Hits Daily Double.

The UMG statement reads: “Darcus informed us of his decision to return to the UK for personal reasons and to pursue new career opportunities there. We fully support his decision and we are thankful to Darcus for his many contributions to Island Records throughout the years.”

Beese led Island Records UK from 2008 – first as co-President, then from 2013 as President – before making the switch to lead the label’s US company in 2018.

His career so far has seen him work closely with the likes of Amy Winehouse, Shawn Mendes, Demi Lovato, Florence + The Machine, Sugababes, Hozier and Mumford & Sons.

Beese was honored as an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list 2014 for services to the UK music industry.

Beese started as an intern in Island’s promotion department in 1989. He worked his way up through the company, holding numerous jobs including A&R Director, where his signings included Amy Winehouse, Sugababes and Taio Cruz.Music Business Worldwide