Variety’s New Publisher and Co-President Dea Lawrence Sets Her Agenda: ‘This Is Where Leaders Are Born’
Dea Lawrence has officially taken the helm as the new publisher of Variety, stepping into the shoes of Michelle Sobrino Stearns, who held the position for several years. In addition to her role as publisher, Lawrence will also serve as co-president alongside Ramin Setoodeh, who is co-editor-in-chief. This leadership transition comes at a pivotal time for the iconic entertainment publication, which has been a staple in Hollywood for over a century. Lawrence’s appointment signals a commitment to evolve Variety while maintaining its status as the definitive magazine of record for the entertainment industry.
In her initial statements, Lawrence emphasized her vision for the future of Variety, aiming to modernize its offerings and expand its reach within the rapidly changing media landscape. She plans to leverage digital platforms to engage a broader audience, ensuring that Variety remains relevant to both industry professionals and general readers alike. Lawrence highlighted the importance of storytelling, not just through traditional articles, but also by embracing multimedia content that resonates with today’s consumers. She is keen on enhancing Variety’s digital presence, particularly in areas like social media and podcasts, where younger audiences are increasingly consuming content.
Lawrence’s strategy is not just about adapting to trends; it also involves a deep respect for Variety’s legacy. She aims to uphold the publication’s reputation for high-quality journalism while exploring innovative ways to deliver content. This dual approach reflects her understanding of the delicate balance between tradition and innovation that is crucial for any longstanding media outlet looking to thrive in the future. As she embarks on this journey, Lawrence is poised to lead Variety into its next 120 years, ensuring it remains a vital source of information and insight for the entertainment industry.
Dea Lawrence has assumed the top business role at Variety, succeeding Michelle Sobrino Stearns as publisher and also becoming co-president (a role she’ll share with Ramin Setoodeh, Variety’s co-editor-in-chief). Lawrence is already in the trenches. Here she outlines her plan to take Variety into its next 120 years as Hollywood’s magazine of record. What was […]
