Desiree Perez

Desiree Perez

Chief Executive Officer & Co-Founder

New York, US

Profile Verified by The Marque

Last Updated: 22 Sep 2026

In Their Own Right

Biography

Desiree Perez is the Chief Executive Officer of Roc Nation, the entertainment company she co-founded with Shawn "JAŸ-Z" Carter. One of the music and entertainment industry's leading executives, she has overseen Roc Nation's expansion from its roots in music into a global enterprise spanning artist management, music publishing, sports, media, philanthropy and brand partnerships.

Working closely with Roc Nation's clients, Desiree develops commercial partnerships and business ventures that extend their brands beyond music. These include Rihanna's FENTY businesses, Megan Thee Stallion's Hot Girl Swim collection and Chicas Divertidas tequila brand, Alicia Keys' collaboration with Hennessy Paradis, and Lil Uzi Vert's campaign with Vans.

Desiree has played a central role in Roc Nation's strategic expansion through major corporate partnerships, including its landmark agreement with the National Football League (NFL). Under the partnership, Roc Nation advises the NFL on live music entertainment strategy, including the Super Bowl Halftime Show, while supporting the league's ‘Inspire Change’ social justice initiative. Desiree also helped launch the Roc Nation School of Music, Sports & Entertainment at Long Island University, extending the company's commitment to education and career development.

Throughout her career, Desiree has led negotiations for major tours, partnerships and business ventures. In recognition of her influence on the music business and artist empowerment, she was named Executive of the Year at the 2019 Billboard Women in Music Awards.

Beyond music, Desiree has executive produced documentary projects focused on criminal justice reform, including Free Meek (2019) and Exposing Parchman (2023). She also oversees Roc Nation's social impact work, collaborating with organizations including REFORM Alliance to advocate for changes to the justice system.

The Record

Background

  • 2019 — Present

    Chief Executive Officer & Co-Founder

    Roc Nation

    Desiree Perez stepped into the role of Chief Executive Officer of Roc Nation in 2019. As CEO, she oversees all 14 Roc Nation verticals, including music, publishing, sports agency, business development, philanthropy, touring, and film and TV development.

  • 2003 — Present

    Co-Owner & Director of Operations

    The 40/40 Club

    Currently in the process of relocating, the 40/40 Club is a high-end sports bar and nightclub in New York City. It offers a unique blend of sports and entertainment, plush seating, exclusive VIP lounges, and an extensive menu of classic American sports bar fare and cocktails.

  • 2008 — 2019

    Chief Operating Officer & Co-Founder

    Roc Nation

    Roc Nation is a full-service global entertainment company founded in 2008. Headquartered in New York City, the company represents some of the world’s most influential artists, athletes, and industry leaders.

In The News

Newsfeed

  • 5 February 2026 · Rolling Stone

    Benito Bowl Bad Bunny’s Road to the Super Bowl: What Led to the Historic Performance

    Read more
  • 2 February 2026 · San Francisco Chronicle

    Everything to know about Bad Bunny ahead of Super Bowl 2026

    Read more
  • 12 September 2025 · Billboard

    Multisector in R&B/HipHop Power Players 2025

    Read more
  • 10 September 2025 · Billboard

    Roc Nation CEO Desiree Perez Speaks on the Fight to Bring New York City’s First Casino to Life

    Read more
  • 29 August 2025 · PR Newswire

    Roc Nation & Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) Launch Student Design Competition

    Read more
  • 30 July 2025 · Hits Daily Double

    The Managers: Roc Nation Is on Brand

    Read more
  • 6 February 2025 · Bloomberg

    How Jay-Z’s Roc Nation Made the Super Bowl Halftime Show Cool Again

    Read more
  • 2 February 2025 · The Source

    Roc Nation CEO Desiree Perez Says Kendrick Lamar is ‘Right Person’ for Super Bowl Slot

    Read more
  • 29 July 2024 · PR Newswire

    Investigative Documentary "Exposing Parchman" Earns Emmy Nomination For Outstanding Writing

    Read more
  • 4 August 2020 · Long Island University

    Roc Nation and Long Island University Establish Roc Nation School of Music, Sports & Entertainment

    Read more
  • 12 December 2019 · Billboard

    Roc Nation’s Desiree Perez Named CEO While Accepting Executive of the Year Award at Billboard’s

    Read more