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Vancouver music business icon Bruce Allen has stepped back from the frontlines of his Bruce Allen Talent management company, announcing industry veteran Paul Haagenson as his successor.

Formerly the long-time president of Live Nation Canada, Haagenson will serve as the new president of Bruce Allen Talent. The 80-year-old Allen, who over 50 years has guided the careers of artists including Bachman-Turner Overdrive, Bryan Adams, and Michael Bublé, will transition from president to chairman with the management firm.

“The company has a tremendous roster of talented artists, and I want to make sure they continue to get the best service we can offer,” Allen said in a statement. “Paul is going to add so much. He has a big reputation and he understands the business incredibly well.”

Haagenson added, “For me to be able to walk into this company with these people that I respect, trust and even enjoy, is the best situation for me. I always saw the way Bruce managed careers, and the level of detail, and the care, and thought that went into it. Bruce and I have a 25 year relationship which evolved from him being a friend and mentor to becoming colleagues and now business partners.”

During his time with Live Nation, Haagenson oversaw mega-tours by the likes of Paul McCartney and Coldplay, as well as guiding multi-day events like Squamish Music Festival. Allen has carved out a decades-long career as one of the most colourful, combative, outspoken, and successful managers in pop music.

Bruce Allen Talent’s current roster includes Bublé as well as Anne Murray, the Offspring, Jann Arden, and Bob Rock.