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

O’Connor’s appointment, which is effective immediately, comes as the brand continues to grow and expand across events, video, branded content and international operations. 

In her expanded role, O’Connor will oversee THR’s business operations with P&L responsibility. She will lead business and revenue operations across live media, social media, marketing, video operations, licensing, international and sales. She will also helm THR’s premier awards season franchises and prestigious live events, including the annual Women in Entertainment philanthropic event, the Raising Our Voices initiative and more. 

“We’re thrilled to announce Lori’s well deserved promotion to EVP, Publisher,” said Jerry Ruiz, senior vp operations and finance at Penske Media Corporation. “With nearly three decades of experience in media, marketing and sales, Lori has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership and vision. Lori’s can-do approach, business instincts and strong industry relationships make her the ideal leader to move THR forward.” 

O’Connor is based in Los Angeles.  

“I am deeply honored to step into the role of Publisher for this legendary brand,” O’Connor said. “Media and entertainment have never been more dynamic, thrilling or challenging than they are today. As the pulse of Hollywood, The Hollywood Reporter brings a distinctive voice backed by 95 years of history, giving us unparalleled access and authority in the entertainment world. With our unique perspective and a bold commitment to embracing change, we are poised to continue redefining industry norms and pushing boundaries.”

O’Connor brings years of experience in media, marketing, sales and data-driven solutions to her work. Prior to THR, O’Connor spent nine years at Simulmedia as vp and general manager of entertainment, where she built and led the entertainment vertical. During her tenure, she leveraged her strong relationships and knowledge for the market working across the company, in the areas of product, science, operations, sales and marketing, to develop best-in-class data-driven solutions for network, studio and streaming partners.

Before Simulmedia, O’Connor was publisher of TV Guide Magazine, where she oversaw advertising sales, research and marketing, leading the charge to push traditional advertising boundaries by creating engaging, organic and authentic experiences for advertisers and readers alike. Earlier in her career, she held agency roles at Grey Advertising and Draft FCB before transitioning to marketing and sales. 

In addition to its in-depth reporting and analysis, thought-provoking reviews, world-class photography and feature exclusives, THR also boasts prestigious live events, industry-leading philanthropic, empowerment and diversity initiatives and hugely successful video series including the Emmy-nominated Off Script With The Hollywood Reporter. In 2024, THR received 40 awards for excellence at the National Arts & Entertainment Journalism Awards and was recently nominated for two Webbys.