Nearly six months after Jay-Z left Def Jam in December of 2007, Island Def Jam Music Group (IDJ) has announced that Shakir Stewart will effectively become the new President of Def Jam.

Stewart was named Executive Vice President of Def Jam Recordings Antonio "L.A." Reid announced yesterday (June 3). Stewart, who was a senior VP of A&R, is credited as one of the foremost people responsible for the singings of Young Jeezy and Rick Ross.

Stewart will report directly to Reid and Steve Bartels, Chief Operating Officer of IDJ and will be responsible for all day-to-day matters regarding Def Jam.

"The bold young management style that Shakir has established at Def Jam is one of the major reasons behind the label's success today," IDJ CEO L.A. Reid said in a statement. "From his solid roots in music publishing, he has grown to master the world of hip-hop and urban music."

"The past four years have been an unforgettable experience for me," Stewart said. "Having the opportunity to work with a brilliant music man such as L.A. Reid, along with the most amazing team in the music business, has afforded me the knowledge and inspiration to take the next step in my career and continue to amplify and expand Def Jam's stellar reputation in the industry."

Stewart is an Oakland native and got his start in the music business promoting shows for a variety of artists, including Nas, Luke, Too $hort and others.

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