Hi-res music streaming and download platform Qobuz has opened a new UK office and appointed Ritch Sibthorpe as London-based Managing Director for the Northern Europe and Australasia region.

The new office marks the first time that Qobuz has had a presence in London and will be the base of operations for the UK and Ireland, along with the size new countries that the brand recently launched in – Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, Australia and New Zealand.

One of three new roles, Sibthorpe’s position will support Qobuz’s international growth ambitions.

Sibthorpe began his career in music journalism and brand PR before joining Warner Music Group as VP for digital marketing and content partnerships, supporting Atlantic Records, Nonesuch, Rhino, Warner Music UK and Warner Records.

He later became MD at Disney Music Group EMEA and most recently, he led global marketing and PR for Chelsea Football Club’s digital unit.

Ritch Sibthorpe said: “I’m very excited about joining the Qobuz family. It’s the ultimate choice for music aficionados seeking an alternative to the mainstream. The passion of the team and its undiluted focus on the art of music means Qobuz delivers the closest possible digital experience to spending time in your local neighbourhood record store. Connecting with music fans, artists, communities and cultures at a local level is at the heart of our philosophy and I look forward to helping develop, and support, the Qobuz community in the region.”

Qobuz has also appointed Fabian Sautier as Chief Brand Officer and Pierre Largeas as Managing Director of Southern Europe, both based at the company’s Paris HQ.

Sautier brings 12 years of international experience in strategic marketing, product development and innovation across multiple consumer industries. He was previously Head of Marketing for Under Armour in France and Southern Europe, and before that Sautier worked for L’Oreal for seven years piloting marketing strategy and innovation as Director of Global Marketing.

Largeas brings many years of experience within the international E-Commerce sector, and has previously held positions at Airbus, Henkel, Jumia Group and iziwork.

“We are excited to have three new exceptional hires join our rapidly growing team,” said Georges Fornay, CEO Deputy for Qobuz. “They will help expand Qobuz’s presence more globally and lead our world-class streaming and download platform for music lovers and audiophiles. I look forward to the energy and expertise each new hire will bring as we continue to support new talent, local artists, and stand up for high-quality sound and music culture.”

Earlier this year, Qobuz became the first music platform to deliver 24-bit hi-res audio to Sonos speakers. 

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