New Chief Financial Officer Appointment
The Japanese entertainment company has appointed Ryusuke (Ryan) Kamada as chief financial officer of its U.S. operations.
Kamada, who has been with Avex since 2018, relocated from Avex’s Japanese headquarters to the US in January 2020 to assist with the launch and development of Avex USA operations.
Professional Background and Experience
His experience encompasses investment banking, corporate legal work, and entertainment industry strategy. Before joining Avex USA, Kamada worked in investment banking at JP Morgan‘s Tokyo office, where he participated in Japan Post‘s $12 billion IPO, Japan’s largest since 1987, and the world’s largest in 2015. He also took part in a multi-billion dollar merger of Japanese oil companies and cross-border mergers and acquisitions.
Earlier in his career, Kamada was part of Toyota’s international legal division from 2007 to 2012. During that time, he was a key member of the team that managed the company’s most significant litigation in the US and participated in vital public hearings in the US Congress.
“Along with his excellent knowledge of business and law, his genuine respect and passion for songwriters is an integral part of the company’s culture.”
Naoki Osada, Avex USA
At Avex, Kamada played a pivotal role in broadening the company’s global reach. As Chief Producer of Avex’s investment group in Japan, he supervised key investments, including mergers, acquisitions, and corporate venture initiatives with prominent Japanese powerhouses and entertainment firms.
CEO of Avex USA Naoki Siege stated, “Ryan’s strategic vision and experience in global finance have been essential in propelling Avex USA’s growth.”
“Along with his excellent knowledge of business and law, his genuine respect and passion for songwriters is an integral part of the company’s culture.”
Ryan Kamada, Chief Financial Officer of Avex USA, expressed, “I am excited to contribute to the ongoing growth of Avex USA by leveraging my experience and skills to foster its expansion and globalization in the United States and beyond.”
“Avex USA combines my passion for music and international business, providing motivation and inspiration. I believe this is a pivotal moment for Japanese entertainment to thrive globally, and I am proud to be a part of this evolution.”
Kamada’s appointment comes after Brennen Bryant was named chief account officer at Avex USA Publishing in March, along with Lou Al-Chamaa as Senior Vice President of Avex USA, Head of Publishing A&R in 2023.