Love H. Whelchel is Downtown Music Holdings’ first Chief People Officer, assigned to working with the company’s leadership on talent acquisition, training and development, infrastructure and organizational design.

Whelchel, who has spent two decades as a global people consultant in the technology, marketing communications and fashion industries, headed the human resources departments for agencies within WPP, IPG and Publicis. He was also the Chief Human Resources Officer for Sean “Puffy” Combs’ companies Combs Enterprises and Bad Boy Worldwide and was a principal in the mobile app company BINKABLE.

"Throughout his impressive career, Love has guided the human resources function for a wide range of diverse companies,” said Downtown CEO Andrew Bergman. “I am excited to collaborate with Love as he takes a lead role in ensuring that we have the best people and culture in the business.

“Having Love’s leadership and energy lead that commitment is the beginning of an incredible new chapter for us.”

Staffers have been encouraged to resist greeting Whelchel with impromptu renditions of “Can You Feel the Love Tonight.”