![]() Michelle Slavich |
Warner Bros. Motion Picture Group is consolidating the domestic and international operations of its marketing and PR departments, with a resulting cut of about 15 jobs in New York and Los Angeles, according to a report in today’s Variety.
Domestic and international publicity teams that formerly operated separately will now be run as a single unit overseen by executive vp global publicity Michelle Slavich. Slavich came to Warner Bros five months ago from YouTube, where she had served as head of entertainment communications.
Among those receiving pink slips were executive VP of international publicity Lance Volland and Ernie Johnston, who has worked in promotions and field publicity for the company for 20 years.
Lynne Frank, the studio's president of international marketing and worldwide planning, will be leaving after finishing campaigns on the upcoming “Fantastic Beasts” sequel and “Aquaman.” PR senior VP Courtney Rogge is also said to be departing. No further cuts are expected.
The changes are being spearheaded by Blair Rich, the studio’s president of worldwide theatrical and home entertainment marketing. A source told Variety that the cuts were the result of an extended review of the departments, and were not related to or dictated by the AT&T-Time Warner merger.


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