Alfonso Perez-Soto Named EVP, Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa

In this newly created role, he will oversee the company’s operations in those quickly developing markets. Based in Miami and New York, Alfonso will report to Stu Bergen, Warner Music Group’s CEO, International and Global Commercial Services. 

Alfonso Perez-Soto says: “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. I can’t wait to get started working alongside our brilliant in-house teams and licensees across the globe.”

Stu Bergen adds: “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.”

Over the past five years, WMG has led a number of major initiatives in these emerging markets. These include the establishment 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. 

Perez-Soto has held numerous roles at WMG. He started as VP of Business Development for Latin America and U.S. Hispanic Markets and later served as SVP, Business Development, Latin America, Spain and Emerging Markets. In 2017, he was appointed to the new role of Global Business Development and Chief Commercial Officer, Emerging Markets.

In his roles Perez-Soto consistently worked to identify new business models and open distribution channels, repeatedly finding ways to drive additional revenue and enhance key partner relationships. He played a pivotal role in accelerating WMG’s expansion in emerging markets, particularly across Latin America.  

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.