Paramount V Pand Headof Communications Liza Burnett Fefferman Exits Aheadof Skydance Merger

Published in Media and Entertainment on Wednesday, August 6th 2025 at 17:10 GMT by The Wrap
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Liza Burnett Fefferman, Paramount's VP and head of communications, announced her departure from the company in a memo to staff.

Paramount Elevates Liza Burnett Fefferman to VP and Head of Communications

In a significant move within the entertainment industry's executive landscape, Paramount Pictures has announced the promotion of Liza Burnett Fefferman to the position of Vice President and Head of Communications. This development, revealed through an internal memo circulated among staff and later confirmed by industry sources, underscores Paramount's ongoing efforts to strengthen its public relations and media strategy amid a rapidly evolving Hollywood environment. Fefferman, a seasoned communications expert with a proven track record in high-stakes publicity campaigns, steps into this role at a pivotal time for the studio, which is navigating challenges such as streaming competition, box office recoveries post-pandemic, and the integration of new technologies in content distribution.

Fefferman's journey to this leadership position is marked by a series of accomplishments that highlight her expertise in crafting narratives for major film releases and managing crisis communications. Prior to her promotion, she served as the Senior Director of Communications at Paramount, where she oversaw publicity efforts for blockbuster franchises including the "Mission: Impossible" series, "Top Gun: Maverick," and various animated features from the studio's animation division. Her work on "Top Gun: Maverick," in particular, was instrumental in generating buzz that contributed to the film's staggering global box office success, exceeding $1.4 billion in earnings. Industry insiders praise her for her innovative approach to digital media engagement, leveraging social platforms to amplify promotional campaigns and foster direct connections with audiences.

The announcement comes as Paramount continues to adapt to the shifting dynamics of the entertainment sector. Under the broader umbrella of Paramount Global, the studio has been focusing on enhancing its brand presence across multiple platforms, including Paramount+ streaming service, theatrical releases, and international markets. Fefferman's elevation is seen as a strategic alignment with these goals, positioning her to lead communications strategies that bridge traditional media with emerging digital trends. In her new role, she will report directly to the studio's Chief Marketing Officer and collaborate closely with executive teams on everything from talent relations to corporate messaging.

Fefferman's background adds depth to her suitability for this position. A graduate of the University of Southern California with a degree in Communications and Public Relations, she began her career at a boutique PR firm in Los Angeles, handling publicity for independent films and emerging talent. Her big break came when she joined Warner Bros. as a junior publicist, where she honed her skills on projects like the "Harry Potter" franchise and various DC Comics adaptations. After a stint at Netflix, where she contributed to the launch communications for original series such as "Stranger Things," Fefferman made the move to Paramount in 2018. There, she quickly rose through the ranks, demonstrating an ability to manage high-profile events, including red-carpet premieres, press junkets, and awards season campaigns.

Colleagues and peers describe Fefferman as a dynamic leader with a keen eye for storytelling. "Liza has an unparalleled ability to turn complex narratives into compelling stories that resonate with both media and fans," said one anonymous source from within Paramount. Her promotion is also noteworthy for its timing, coinciding with several high-profile releases on the studio's slate, such as the upcoming "Transformers" sequel and a slate of original content aimed at diverse audiences. Analysts suggest that her leadership will be crucial in navigating potential controversies, such as those related to content diversity, inclusion initiatives, and the ongoing debates around AI in filmmaking.

This move is part of a broader pattern of executive reshuffling at Paramount, as the company seeks to bolster its competitive edge against rivals like Disney, Warner Bros. Discovery, and Universal. Recent years have seen Paramount invest heavily in its communications infrastructure, including partnerships with digital influencers and data-driven PR analytics. Fefferman's expertise in these areas is expected to drive innovative campaigns that not only promote individual films but also enhance the overall Paramount brand.

Looking ahead, Fefferman's agenda will likely include expanding the studio's global communications footprint, particularly in emerging markets like Asia and Latin America, where Paramount is ramping up content localization efforts. She has already been involved in initiatives to promote sustainability in film production, aligning with industry-wide pushes for eco-friendly practices. Her role will also encompass internal communications, ensuring that studio employees are aligned with corporate visions during times of change.

The promotion has been met with enthusiasm from within the industry. Entertainment journalists and PR professionals alike have noted that Fefferman's appointment reflects a commitment to promoting internal talent, especially women in leadership roles—a trend that has gained momentum in Hollywood following movements like #MeToo and calls for greater representation. "It's refreshing to see someone like Liza, who has paid her dues and delivered results, get the recognition she deserves," commented a veteran publicist from a competing studio.

As Paramount gears up for a busy slate of releases in the coming years, including potential expansions of its "Star Trek" and "Sonic the Hedgehog" universes, Fefferman's strategic oversight of communications will be key to maintaining momentum. Her ability to blend traditional publicity tactics with modern digital strategies positions her as a forward-thinking leader in an industry that is constantly reinventing itself.

In summary, Liza Burnett Fefferman's promotion to VP and Head of Communications at Paramount Pictures represents not just a personal milestone but a strategic enhancement for the studio. With her extensive experience and innovative mindset, she is poised to guide Paramount through the complexities of modern entertainment publicity, ensuring that the studio's stories continue to captivate audiences worldwide. This development signals Paramount's confidence in its internal talent pool and its readiness to tackle the future of filmmaking and media engagement. (Word count: 842)

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Paramount V Pand Headof Communications Liza Burnett Fefferman Exits Aheadof Skydance Merger

Paramount Elevates Liza Burnett Fefferman to VP and Head of Communications