ESSENCE Welcomes Veteran Media Executive Michele Ghee as Chief Content Officer and Engaged in Talks to Acquire Expectant Media

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Essence Ventures, the parent company of ESSENCE Communications, Inc., today, announces Michele Ghee as Chief Content Officer, underscoring the company’s commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the New General Market. In this role, Ghee will oversee content and video strategies across all of the company’s platforms, as well as each brands’ associated events and digital properties. Her extensive experience in media, content creation, distribution, data and research insights will play a crucial role in expanding Essence Ventures' reach and impact in the marketplace. In conjunction with this appointment, Essence Ventures is engaged in talks to acquire Expectant Media, the content creation and strategy firm founded by Ghee that scales Black creators’ distribution channels by expanding their reach to new audiences, thus increasing their revenue opportunities.

Ghee expressed her enthusiasm for the new role and acquisition, stating, "I am excited to join Essence Ventures and contribute to the legacy of this iconic brand. The opportunity to shape content that resonates with and empowers our audience is both exciting and humbling. By bringing Expectant Media into the Essence Ventures family, we'll also be able to combine our strengths to create even more powerful and meaningful content for our community.”

Sundial Media Group President Kirk McDonald adds, “I'm thrilled about the continued expansion of the portfolio and excited about what this partnership will mean under President and CEO Caroline Wanga’s leadership moving forward at Essence Ventures.”

Ghee brings a wealth of experience from her impressive career with leading media powerhouses. Previously, she served as the CEO of Ebony and Jet, created BETHer during her tenure at BET, has authored several books and received an honorary doctorate from her alma mater, Golden Gate University. Additionally, her extensive experience includes tenures at Allen Media Group, CNN, A&E, and The History Channel.

About Essence Ventures

A multi-faceted ecosystem that uplifts the Global Black experience through frictionless, borderless economic advancements at the intersection of community and culture, Essence Ventures is a member of the Sundial Group of Companies and is the parent company for Essence Communications, Inc., AFROPUNK, Beautycon and Essence Studios.