Welcome, John Probyn
John Joins as Group Head of Event Operations, Marking a New Phase of Expansion
Far and Beyond is delighted to announce the appointment of John Probyn as Group Head of Event Operations, a strategic hire that underscores the company’s commitment to delivering world-class event production across music, sports, and large-scale public events. John’s appointment marks a significant milestone in Far and Beyond’s continued growth and reflects the company’s evolution as a leader in the live event industry.
With over three decades in the industry, John’s journey from Operations Director to Chief Operating Officer at Live Nation underscores his legendary reputation and expertise. At Live Nation, he was instrumental in orchestrating thousands of tours and major concerts for iconic artists like U2, Madonna, and Bon Jovi. Notably, John was a driving force behind the creation of celebrated festivals, including Download, Wireless, Creamfields, and Hard Rock Calling. His leadership extended to global events, from Live 8 and Live Earth to the London 2012 Olympic Live Sites, solidifying his status as one of the industry’s foremost leaders.
John’s relationship with Far and Beyond's Managing Director, Jess Shields, makes this appointment even more meaningful. Reflecting on John’s influence on her own career, Shields said, “I started my journey in festival management under John’s guidance, and it’s truly an honour to now have him join us. His reputation and experience are legendary, and we are thrilled to offer this level of expertise to our team. His vision aligns seamlessly with our commitment to impactful, fan-centred events.”
John recently served as Head of Business Development at Solotech, where he led initiatives to expand their footprint across Europe, building on his impressive legacy in the live event sector. His role at Far and Beyond will involve overseeing event strategy, production management, and cross-team coordination, ensuring every event delivers excellence, innovation, and unforgettable experiences for attendees.
John says, “I am looking forward to new challenges and adventures ahead, I have known Jess and most of her team for many years and I’m delighted to join such a talented and highly regarded company.”