Warner Music Group is increasing investment into the developing markets of Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa with the appointment of Alfonso Perez-Soto into the newly created role of EVP for the regions.
Based in Miami and New York, Perez-Soto will oversee the company’s operations in the three markets, reporting to to Stu Bergen, Warner Music Group’s CEO, International and Global Commercial Services.
He moves up from his previous role as Global Business Development and Chief Commercial Officer, Emerging Markets.
After starting out as VP of Business Development for Latin America and U.S. Hispanic Markets at WMG, Perez-Soto later served as SVP, Business Development, Latin America, Spain and Emerging Markets.
In his roles, he has consistently worked to identify new business models and open distribution channels, repeatedly finding ways to drive additional revenue and enhance key partner relationships.
He has also played a pivotal role in accelerating WMG’s expansion in emerging markets, particularly across Latin America.
“There’s no one better-placed to spearhead our growth in these areas, which are crucial for the future of our company.”
stu bergen, warner music group
Bergen said: “Alfonso has a knack for unlocking business opportunities in emerging markets.
“There’s no one better-placed to spearhead our growth in these areas, which are crucial for the future of our company.
“In today’s streaming ecosystem these regions are going to become increasingly influential in breaking new artists globally.”
Perez-Soto added: “I’m delighted to take up this new role as we expand our presence in key emerging markets.
“These regions have fantastic local performers and provide a huge opportunity for our international artists.”
Alfonso Perez-Soto
“These regions have fantastic local performers and provide a huge opportunity for our international artists.
“I can’t wait to get started working alongside our brilliant in-house teams and licensees across the globe.”
Over the past five years, WMG has led a number of major initiatives in the emerging markets.
Those include the launch of Warner Music Russia and Warner Music South Africa in 2013; the integration of EMI’s affiliates in key Eastern European markets in the same year; and the acquisition of Polskie Nagrania in 2015.
Earlier in his career, Perez-Soto worked at Telefonica, as VP, Content Corporate Unit; Universal Music Group in Latin America as Senior Business Developer; and Nokia, where he held numerous senior positions.
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