EMPIRE Publishing Hired New Latin America Business Chief
The San Francisco-based firm brought on former Rimas executive Emilio Morales to lead regional development.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Latin
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Emilio Morales has joined the San Francisco-headquartered EMPIRE Publishing as Senior Vice President of Business Development for Latin America. Morales will focus on expanding the company’s reach and deepening ties with songwriters and producers across the region.
Why it matters
The hire marks a strategic shift as EMPIRE aims to capitalize on the increasing global dominance of Latin music. With Latin American markets becoming a central pillar of the music business, this move seeks to build on the company's recent entry into the Billboard Top 10.
During his time at Rimas Publishing, Morales grew the client roster from 40 to more than 150 writers and producers. The broader US Latin recorded music sector hit $542.2 million in revenue during the first half of 2026.
The players
Emilio Morales
The new Senior Vice President of Business Development for Latin America at EMPIRE Publishing.
EMPIRE Publishing
A San Francisco-based music publishing company that is expanding its footprint in the global Latin music market.
Vinny Kumar
The President of EMPIRE Publishing who has served in the role since November 2025.
The details
Morales previously led Rimas Publishing, earning Billboard Latin Music Awards for Publisher of the Year in 2021 and 2022. He reports to EMPIRE Publishing leadership, including President Vinny Kumar, who took over in November 2025. EMPIRE plans to utilize Morales' experience to grow its presence, mirroring its 2024 success where it reached the top 10 in Billboard’s Hot 100 Publisher Rankings.
Timeline
2021: Rimas Publishing wins Publisher of the Year.
2022: Rimas Publishing wins Publisher of the Year.
2024: EMPIRE Publishing reaches Billboard Top 10 rankings.
November 2025: Vinny Kumar is promoted to President.
First half 2026: US Latin music revenues reach $542.2 million.
Across the Bay
This move follows EMPIRE's rise into Billboard's Hot 100 Publisher Rankings in 2024. The expansion mirrors industry-wide trends that have seen Latin music revenues grow across the board.
Local music followers can watch for new collaborations emerging from the San Francisco headquarters as Morales begins his tenure. The expansion is expected to increase the presence of international artists in the local studio and business circuit.
The takeaway
The addition of Morales signals a major push by a local firm to dominate the global Latin music sector. Watch for upcoming artist signings as EMPIRE begins integrating its new regional strategy.
Further reading
For more coverage on industry shifts, visit our Latin music section.
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