Universal Music Group has hired Dr. Menna Demessie as SVP and Executive Director of its Task Force for Meaningful Change (TFMC).

Additionally, UMG’s EVP, Chief People and Inclusion Officer, Eric Hutcherson, will join Jeff Harleston (General Counsel/EVP of Business and Legal Affairs, UMG/Interim CEO, Def Jam) and Ethiopia Habtemariam (Motown President) as a co-chair of the TFMC, which was established by UMG’s Chairman/CEO, Sir Lucian Grainge, in June of last year.

“We’re excited to welcome Dr. Demessie to the UMG family and to have the benefit of her experience in social-justice work and as a leader of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation to help advance the ongoing efforts of the TFMC to drive meaningful, long-term change,” said Habtemariam.

“Having Dr. Demessie join UMG and oversee the TFMC’s efforts is a further statement of our commitment to the fight for equality and social justice,” Hutcherson said. “Her perspective will enhance the reach of what the TFMC can accomplish and we’re excited to have her join us in our efforts.”

“From voter initiatives, civic engagement and community support through charitable giving to new internal programs, UMG has demonstrated a commitment to real, lasting change and I couldn’t be more thrilled to be part of this organization,” Dr. Demessie said.

Demessie is a published authority on race and ethnic politics, a political scientist and a social-justice advocate with a track record of advancing civic and educational efforts. She previously served as SVP of Policy Analysis and Research for the Leadership Institute at the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Inc., where she spearheaded research and policy initiatives affecting African Americans and the global Black community for the past nine years.

For more information on the TFMC, click here.

Photo credit: Duane Prokop