HYBE is about to make a splash: PR veteran Johanna Fuentes has joined HYBE America as executive vice president and head of communications and public relations. In the newly created role, she will handle all internal and external communications for HYBE across North and South America.
Fuentes has recently consulted with a variety of clients including Regal Cineworld, Activision, and Blumhouse, as well as Shakira’s “Las Mujeres Ya No Jolan” world tour. She previously served as Head of Global Communications for WarnerMedia Studios and Networks Group and Executive Vice President of Worldwide Corporate Communications and Public Affairs for Warner Bros. There, he helped launch HBO Max, transition to daytime theatrical releases, and even during the COVID-19 pandemic. Fuentes also spent 10 years as vice president of communications at Showtime Networks and led communications at Bravo.
News of Fuentes’ hiring comes on the same day that HYBE America also announced a major new hire, Ethiopia Habtemariam, as its new president of music. At HYBE America, Fuentes will oversee communications and PR for the music, film and television portfolio, including Big Machine Label Group and Quality Control Music in the U.S., as well as HYBE’s Latin American and U.S. Hispanic market labels, and HYBE’s partnership with Universal Music.
“Joanna is a world-class communications leader with an extraordinary track record of leading companies through moments of growth, transformation, and cultural impact,” said Isaac Lee, Chairman and CEO of HYBE America. “Her strategic vision, deep industry relationships, and ability to connect corporate leaders, artists, and audiences make her an invaluable addition to our leadership team as we continue to expand HYBE’s presence and impact across the Americas.”
Based in Los Angeles, Fuentes will work with HYBE America’s senior leadership team and HYBE’s global PR team in South Korea.
“I’m excited to join HYBE America at a defining moment for both the company and the global music industry,” said Fuentes. “HYBE is building a next-generation entertainment model that is deeply rooted in culture, fandom, and global ambition. I look forward to leveraging my experience navigating through times of rapid change to help define a bold, consistent narrative that supports the company’s continued expansion across the Americas.”
Although HYBE is focused on music, it also has a mix of TV and film in its arsenal, including an untitled K-pop movie directed by Benson Lee that is in production with Paramount. HYBE’s artist roster includes BTS, Katseye, Tim McGraw, Sheryl Crow, Thomas Rhett, Rascal Flatts, Riley Green, Lady A, Lil Baby, Lil Yachty, Quavo, Santos Bravos, ENHYPEN, LE SSERAFIM, and Cortis. The company also recently announced a management agreement with Tyla.
