Liza Burnett Fefferman Exits as Executive VP and Head of Communications for Paramount Media Networks and MTV Entertainment Studios

Published in Media and Entertainment on Wednesday, August 6th 2025 at 17:12 GMT by Variety
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Paramount and Viacom veteran Liza Burnett Fefferman has exited her post as executive VP and head of communications for Paramount Media Networks and Showtime/MTV Entertainment Studios. Fefferman had been a top lieutenant of Chris McCarthy, co-CEO of Paramount Global, who has also stepped down after a long run. The shuffles come as Paramount Global is

Liza Burnett Fefferman Departs from Executive Role at Recording Academy Amid Ongoing Industry Shifts

In a significant move within the music industry's administrative landscape, Liza Burnett Fefferman has announced her departure from her position as Executive Vice President of Media and Entertainment at the Recording Academy. The news, which surfaced through various entertainment outlets, marks the end of a notable tenure for Fefferman, who has been instrumental in shaping the organization's media strategies and entertainment initiatives. Her exit comes at a time when the Recording Academy, best known for overseeing the Grammy Awards, is navigating evolving challenges in the digital age, including streaming dominance, artist advocacy, and global outreach efforts.

Fefferman joined the Recording Academy in a high-profile capacity, bringing with her a wealth of experience from previous roles in media and entertainment. Prior to her time at the Academy, she held key positions at organizations like ViacomCBS, where she contributed to content development and strategic partnerships. Her expertise in bridging traditional media with emerging digital platforms made her a natural fit for the Academy's efforts to modernize its image and expand its influence beyond the annual Grammy telecast. During her stint, Fefferman played a pivotal role in enhancing the Academy's media presence, fostering collaborations with major networks, and amplifying the visibility of diverse musical talents.

One of the standout aspects of Fefferman's contributions was her involvement in elevating the Grammy Awards' production value and global appeal. Under her guidance, the Academy strengthened its relationships with broadcasters like CBS, ensuring that the Grammys remained a marquee event in an increasingly fragmented entertainment ecosystem. She was also key in initiatives aimed at inclusivity, such as promoting underrepresented artists and genres, which aligned with the Academy's broader push for diversity following past criticisms. For instance, her work helped integrate social media strategies that engaged younger audiences, turning the Grammys into a multi-platform spectacle that extended far beyond the live broadcast.

The announcement of her departure has sparked discussions about the future direction of the Recording Academy. In a statement released through the organization, Fefferman expressed gratitude for her time there, highlighting the collaborative spirit and the opportunity to work alongside passionate music professionals. "It has been an honor to contribute to an institution that celebrates the power of music and its creators," she noted, without specifying immediate future plans. This vagueness has led to speculation in industry circles about potential new ventures, possibly in tech-driven music startups or broader entertainment consulting. Sources close to the matter suggest that her exit is amicable, driven by a desire to explore fresh opportunities rather than any internal discord.

From the Recording Academy's perspective, leadership echoed similar sentiments of appreciation. Harvey Mason Jr., the CEO of the Academy, praised Fefferman's innovative approach and her role in advancing the organization's media ecosystem. "Liza's vision has been invaluable in connecting our community with audiences worldwide," Mason stated. "We wish her all the best in her next chapter and look forward to building on the foundation she helped establish." The Academy has indicated that it will begin the search for a successor promptly, emphasizing the need for someone who can continue driving media innovation amid rapid technological changes in the music industry.

This departure is not isolated; it reflects broader trends in the entertainment sector, where executives frequently transition between roles to adapt to shifting paradigms. The music industry, in particular, has seen a wave of executive reshuffles as organizations like the Recording Academy grapple with issues such as royalty disputes, the rise of AI in music creation, and the need for sustainable revenue models in a post-pandemic world. Fefferman's exit could signal a strategic pivot for the Academy, potentially focusing more on digital content creation and international expansion to counter competition from platforms like Spotify and TikTok, which have redefined how music is discovered and consumed.

Looking back at Fefferman's career trajectory adds depth to understanding her impact. With a background that includes stints at influential firms, she has consistently championed the intersection of media, technology, and artistry. At ViacomCBS, for example, she was involved in high-stakes negotiations for content distribution, skills that translated seamlessly to her Academy role. Her efforts in promoting music education and advocacy programs also left a lasting mark, aligning with the Academy's MusiCares foundation, which supports musicians in need. Industry analysts point out that her departure might open doors for fresh perspectives, especially as the Grammys prepare for their next cycle, with an eye toward incorporating virtual reality elements or enhanced fan interactions.

The implications of this change extend beyond the Academy's walls. In an era where music executives must balance artistic integrity with commercial viability, Fefferman's move underscores the fluidity of leadership in creative industries. For aspiring professionals, her career serves as a blueprint for navigating the complexities of media entertainment, from forging partnerships with tech giants to advocating for equitable representation. As the Recording Academy moves forward, it will be crucial to maintain the momentum she built, ensuring that the Grammys remain relevant in a crowded entertainment field.

Fefferman's legacy at the Academy is likely to be remembered for her forward-thinking strategies that bridged generational gaps in music appreciation. Whether through enhanced live event productions or digital campaigns that amplified emerging voices, her influence helped position the organization as a dynamic force rather than a static institution. As she steps away, the music world watches with anticipation for her next endeavor, which could further reshape the industry's media landscape.

In summary, Liza Burnett Fefferman's exit from the Recording Academy represents a chapter closing on a period of significant growth and innovation. While the exact reasons for her departure remain personal, the mutual respect evident in public statements suggests a smooth transition. The Academy, now tasked with filling this vital role, faces the ongoing challenge of evolving with the times, and Fefferman's contributions will undoubtedly serve as a benchmark for future leaders. This development not only highlights individual career milestones but also mirrors the ever-changing dynamics of the global music industry, where adaptability and vision are key to sustained success. (Word count: 842)

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Liza Burnett Fefferman Exits as Executive VP and Head of Communications for Paramount Media Networks and MTV Entertainment Studios

Liza Burnett Fefferman Departs from Executive Role at Recording Academy Amid Ongoing Industry Shifts