The Hollywood Reporter Names Lori O’Connor Executive VP and Publisher

Lori O’Connor has been promoted to the executive vp and publisher at The Hollywood Reporter.

O’Connor’s new position takes effect right away, reflecting the ongoing growth and expansion of the brand in areas such as events, videos, branded content, and global operations.

In her expanded position, O’Connor will manage THR’s business functions, with profit and loss accountability. She will direct business and income operations spanning live media, social media, marketing, video production, licensing, international affairs, and sales. Furthermore, she will head THR’s prestigious awards-season series and significant live events, such as the Women in Entertainment charity event, the Raising Our Voices initiative, and others.

Jerry Ruiz, senior vice president of operations and finance at Penske Media Corporation, excitedly announced that Lori has been promoted to EVP, Publisher. With close to three decades in media, marketing, and sales under her belt, Lori’s leadership skills and foresight have consistently shone brightly. Her problem-solving attitude, keen business sense, and robust industry connections make her the perfect choice to guide THR towards future success.

O’Connor is based in Los Angeles.  

O’Connor expressed great pride in taking on the Publisher position for this esteemed brand, stating that the media and entertainment landscape has never been more vibrant, exhilarating, or demanding. As a beacon of Hollywood, The Hollywood Reporter, with its 95-year history and distinctive voice, offers unmatched insight and influence in the entertainment industry. With our innovative outlook and a daring resolve to adapt, we are ready to keep reshaping industry standards and exploring new frontiers.

O’Connor has a rich background spanning media, marketing, sales, and data-focused problem-solving, which she brings to her current role. Before joining THR, she spent nearly a decade at Simulmedia as the VP and General Manager of Entertainment, where she established and oversaw the entertainment division. Throughout her time there, she utilized her extensive industry connections and market insights to collaborate across various departments such as product development, research, operations, sales, and marketing. This collaboration led to the creation of top-tier data-driven solutions tailored for network, studio, and streaming partners.

Before joining Simulmedia, O’Connor served as the publisher of TV Guide Magazine, where she managed advertising sales, research, and marketing. During her tenure, she was instrumental in challenging traditional advertising norms by designing captivating, genuine, and authentic ad experiences for both advertisers and readers. Earlier on, she worked in agency roles at Grey Advertising and Draft FCB before moving into marketing and sales.

Beyond its detailed articles and insights, captivating critiques, stunning visuals, and unique features, The Hollywood Reporter (THR) additionally hosts esteemed events, pioneering charitable, empowerment, and diversity programs, and successful video series such as the Emmy-nominated “Close Up With The Hollywood Reporter.” In 2024, THR was honored with 40 awards for excellence at the National Arts & Entertainment Journalism Awards and has been nominated for two Webbys.

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2025-04-09 18:55