HYBE America Expands Senior Leadership Team to Accelerate Global Growth

HYBE America, the U.S.-based subsidiary of HYBE, is continuously recruiting senior executives to speed up its expansion into international markets. Recent additions in key areas such as communications, legal affairs, and music are helping to solidify the company’s global growth strategy.

In the communications and public relations sector, Johanna Fuentes was appointed as Executive Vice President and head of communications and public relations in the newly created executive role. Fuentes brings over 25 years of experience in film, television, streaming, music, gaming, and live entertainment. While serving as a senior executive in global communications at Warner Bros., she led communications strategies for major initiatives including the launch of HBO Max, message management during the pandemic, and simultaneous releases on OTT platforms before theatrical releases. She has also held key positions at HBO, Showtime Networks, Bravo, and CBS. More recently, she has run a consulting firm, providing advisory services to Regal Cineworld, Shakira’s “Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran” world tour, Activision, and Blumhouse. Based in Los Angeles, Fuentes will oversee internal and external communications across North and South America, developing communication strategies for the company’s music, video, and television portfolio, which includes partnerships with Big Machine Label Group, Quality Control Music, Latin American labels, the U.S. Hispanic market, and Universal Music.

In the legal affairs division, Gene Whitney joined as General Counsel. As a mid-level executive with over 20 years of experience in music, technology, and media, Whitney has held significant roles at Riot Games, Amazon Music, Meta, SoundCloud, Vevo, and Universal Music Group. At Riot Games, she served as Global Senior Director of Music and head of label operations, where she developed the company’s innovative music strategies for gaming, esports, and virtual entertainment, and negotiated industry-defining partnerships with major labels, publishers, and global rights holders. Starting work in early January 2026, Whitney, based in Los Angeles, will be responsible for developing legal strategies across North and South America, overseeing corporate governance, and supporting international market growth.

Isaac Lee, Chairman and CEO, stated in a statement that “Johanna is an outstanding communication leader who has guided companies through moments of growth, transformation, and cultural impact.” He added that “her strategic insight, industry connections, corporate leadership skills, and ability to connect artists with the public will be key assets as we expand our influence in the American region.” Regarding Gene, he described him as “a rare individual with legal expertise, business acumen, and a deep understanding of how music functions on emerging platforms.”

HYBE America’s recruitment efforts have been extensive recently. Ethiopia Habtemariam was brought on as President of Music; he previously led Motown Records at Universal Music Group. Last September, Jenni Pfaff joined as Chief People and Transformation Officer. This hiring appears to be part of a restructuring of the company’s leadership team following Scooter Braun’s departure from the CEO role in July 2025.

Fuentes said, “I am thrilled to join HYBE America at this pivotal moment as it builds a next-generation entertainment model rooted in global culture, fandoms, and international ambitions.” She added, “Leveraging my experience navigating rapid change, I will contribute to defining a bold and unified narrative that supports the company’s expansion in the American region.” Whitney also expressed enthusiasm, saying, “It is an honor to join HYBE at this crucial time when it is redefining the future of music, storytelling, and global fandoms.” She stated she will help shape the next chapter of innovation and growth.