Rhythm Group Appoints CEO

New Zealand-based festival and event operator Rhythm Group appointed UK-born Kieran Spillane as its new CEO.

Spillane worked with Mean Fiddler Music Group in London and for 12 years was a senior executive with the Irish division of Live Nation.

“I am genuinely excited at the prospect of bringing the Rhythm Group into its next phase,” Spillane said. “My vision is to continue improving all our existing events, with a focus on maximising our customers’ experience.

“In addition, I believe the potential of the Rhythm Group is enormous and I look forward to the challenge of delivering many new entertainment opportunities.”

The company’s flagship open-air Rhythm and Vines is entering its 11th year, last year drawing a record 27,000 to the Waiohika Estate winery.

Last year it launched four new festivals in different parts of New Zealand, and also operates the Rhythm and Sands festival in Ko Phangan, Thailand.