Ethiopia Habtemariam Appointed President of Music at HYBE America

HYBE America has announced a series of key appointments, with Ethiopia Habtemariam appointed President of Music, and Johanna Fuentes Executive Vice President and Head of Communications and PR, a newly created role.

Ethiopia Habtemariam:

• Habtemariam is a two decade-plus Universal Music Group (UMG) veteran, who most recently headed up UMG’s Motown Records.

• She will be based in Los Angeles and her hometown of Atlanta, and report to HYBE America Chairman and CEO Isaac Lee.

• She is charged with advancing HYBE America’s long-term growth strategy, spearheading A&R and artist development across the company’s label ecosystem, and identifying new creative and commercial opportunities.

• She will “collaborate closely” with UMG, given HYBE’s ongoing partnership with the company.

Johanna Fuentes:

• Fuentes brings more than 25 years of communications and marketing experience across film, television, streaming, music, gaming and live entertainment.

• Most recently she served as Head of Global Communications for the WarnerMedia Studios and Networks Group and EVP, Worldwide Corporate Communications and Public Affairs at Warner Bros.

• In her new role Fuentes will shape HYBE AMERICA’s communications strategy, strengthen internal alignment, and elevate the company’s profile throughout the Americas.

• She will also oversee communications and PR efforts for the company’s music, film and television across its portfolio, including Big Machine Label Group and Quality Control Music in the US, HYBE’s labels in Latin America and the US Hispanic market, and ongoing partnership with Universal Music.

• She will be based in Los Angeles.

What they said:

• Ethiopia Habtemariam: “I’ve long admired how HYBE America approaches artists, fans, and the future of entertainment. This is a company building with intention and investing for the long term while staying deeply connected to culture. I’m excited to contribute my experience as HYBE America continues to shape what’s next for music on a global scale.”

• Johanna Fuentes: “I’m thrilled to join HYBE America at a defining moment for both the company and the global music industry. HYBE is building a next-generation entertainment model with deep roots in culture, fandom, and global ambition. I look forward to bringing my experience navigating periods of rapid change to help define a bold, cohesive narrative that supports the company’s continued expansion across the Americas.”