Desiree Perez is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and co-founder of Roc Nation, a global entertainment company she established with Shawn “JAY-Z” Carter in 2008. Headquartered in New York City, Roc Nation has grown into a multifaceted organization encompassing music, sports, media, philanthropy, and education.
Perez served as Roc Nation’s Chief Operating Officer from 2009 to 2019, overseeing the company’s expansion into various sectors. In 2019, she was promoted to CEO, a role in which she continues to drive the company’s growth and diversification.
Perez played a pivotal role in transforming the Super Bowl Halftime Show into a more inclusive and culturally relevant event. Her efforts earned her an Emmy Award in 2022 for Outstanding Variety Special (Live).
Under her leadership, Roc Nation has been actively involved in social justice initiatives through its philanthropic arm, Team Roc. Perez has been instrumental in supporting organizations like the REFORM Alliance and the Shawn Carter Foundation.
In May 2025, Perez faced legal allegations from her daughter, Demoree Hadley, who filed a lawsuit claiming she was unlawfully detained under Florida’s mental health laws. The case is ongoing and has brought personal matters into the public eye.
Early Life and Background
Birth and Ethnicity
Desiree Perez was born in the Bronx, New York City, to Cuban immigrant parents. Her Latina heritage has been a significant influence on her perspective and leadership style, often emphasizing the importance of representation and inclusivity in the entertainment industry.
Family and Upbringing
Raised in a working-class neighborhood, Perez’s upbringing instilled in her a strong work ethic and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by underrepresented communities. These experiences have fueled her passion for advocating for social justice and equality throughout her career.
Education
Details about Desiree Perez’s formal education are limited. However, her extensive experience in the entertainment industry, particularly in nightlife management, suggests a practical education shaped by real-world business challenges and opportunities.
Career Journey
Early Career in Nightlife Management
In the mid-1990s, Perez began her career as a part-time assistant manager at a nightclub in New York City. Her role involved overseeing operations, managing staff, and ensuring a seamless experience for patrons. This experience honed her organizational and leadership skills, laying the foundation for her future endeavors in the entertainment sector.
Founding Roc Nation
In 2008, Perez co-founded Roc Nation with JAY-Z. Initially, the company operated with a small team, focusing on artist management and music production. Over the years, under Perez’s strategic guidance, Roc Nation expanded its services to include sports management, media production, philanthropy, and education, establishing itself as a comprehensive entertainment entity.
Transition to CEO
Perez served as Roc Nation’s Chief Operating Officer from 2009 to 2019. In 2019, she was appointed CEO, succeeding Jay Brown. In this role, Perez has been instrumental in executing major deals, including Jay-Z’s $200 million global tour deal with Live Nation and Rihanna’s lucrative sponsorship agreements with Samsung and PUMA.
Philanthropic Initiatives
Beyond her executive responsibilities, Perez has led Roc Nation’s philanthropic efforts through Team Roc, the company’s social justice division. Under her leadership, Team Roc has supported various initiatives, including prison reform and expanded opportunities for minorities. Perez’s commitment to social justice is also reflected in her involvement with organizations like the REFORM Alliance and the United Justice Coalition.
Personal Life
Husband: Juan Perez
Desiree Perez is married to Juan Perez, who oversees Roc Nation’s sports division. Together, they have been instrumental in expanding Roc Nation’s influence in the sports industry, representing athletes across various disciplines.
Children
Information regarding Desiree and Juan Perez’s children is not publicly available, as the couple maintains a private personal life away from media scrutiny.
Legal Challenges and Pardon
In the late 1990s, Perez faced legal issues related to a narcotics conviction, resulting in a five-year probation sentence. She later violated her parole and served nine months in prison. In January 2021, former President Donald Trump granted her a full pardon, clearing her criminal record. Perez has expressed regret over this chapter of her life and views the pardon as a legal closure to a past mistake.
Net Worth
As of 2025, Desiree Perez’s estimated net worth is approximately $50 million. Her wealth is primarily derived from her leadership role at Roc Nation and her involvement in various business ventures within the entertainment industry.
Recognition and Awards
Billboard Women in Music Awards (2019): Executive of the Year
Variety500 Honoree (2021, 2023): Recognized among the top 500 most influential business leaders in the global media industry
Entrepreneur’s 100 Women of Influence (2022): Acknowledged for her impact in the business world
Hollywood Reporter’s Top 55 Most Powerful Latin Players in Film, TV, and Music (2023): Listed among the leading Latin figures in the entertainment industry
Emmy Award (2022): Outstanding Variety Special (Live) for her role in producing the Super Bowl Halftime Show
Roc Nation School of Music, Sports & Entertainment
In collaboration with Long Island University, Perez helped establish the Roc Nation School of Music, Sports & Entertainment in Brooklyn. The institution offers undergraduate programs in music, production, entrepreneurship, music technology, and sports management, aiming to provide students with practical experience and industry connections.
Conclusion
Desiree Perez’s journey from managing nightclubs to leading Roc Nation exemplifies the power of determination, strategic thinking, and a commitment to social justice. Her leadership has not only transformed Roc Nation into a multifaceted entertainment empire but has also paved the way for greater representation and opportunities for underrepresented communities in the industry.
FAQs
What is Desiree Perez’s role at Roc Nation?
Desiree Perez is the Chief Executive Officer and co-founder of Roc Nation, overseeing the company’s operations and strategic direction.
Where was Desiree Perez born?
She was born in the Bronx, New York City, to Cuban immigrant parents.
What was Desiree Perez’s first job in the entertainment industry?
Her first role was as a part-time assistant manager at a nightclub in New York City in the mid-1990s.
Who is Desiree Perez married to?
She is married to Juan Perez, who manages Roc Nation’s sports division.
Does Desiree Perez have children?
Information about her children is not publicly available.
What legal issues has Desiree Perez faced?
In the late 1990s, she was convicted on narcotics charges, served time in prison, and was later pardoned by President Donald Trump in 2021.
What is Desiree Perez’s estimated net worth?
Her estimated net worth is approximately $50 million as of 2025.
What awards has Desiree Perez received?
She has received several accolades, including the Billboard Women in Music Executive of the Year (2019) and an Emmy Award (2022).
What philanthropic initiatives is Desiree Perez involved in?
Through Team Roc, she supports social justice causes, including prison reform and expanded opportunities for minorities.
