As part of Hearst UK’s increased investment and ownership of entertainment and technology content, says the company, Kelly’s appointment will see her driving revenue through a wide range of audience platforms, including digital, performance, event, content, creative solutions and print offerings. Kelly will work across Hearst UK’s portfolio brands which feature entertainment and technology content, including Digital Spy, Cosmopolitan, Harper’s Bazaar, Good Housekeeping, Red, House Beautiful, Elle, Men’s Health, Women’s Health and Esquire.
An entertainment strategist with over 20 years’ experience in the sector, Kelly was previously Global Head of Film, TV and Games for ESI Media, and has overseen animation teams, VR/motion capture and game production through her previous roles. She is also founder of The Stunt Alliance and Screen Masters International which have provided production solutions for some of the biggest TV shows and films, boasting a portfolio that includes Dune, Tenet, No Time To Die and Jurassic World: Dominion. Kelly is a dedicated ambassador for entertainment charities, logging 365 consecutive days at the cinema for Medicinema, a charity which builds and operates cinemas in hospitals, allowing film to entertain those in most need of entertainment.
Jane Wolfson, Chief Commercial Officer, Hearst UK said: “It’s a major statement for Hearst UK to have someone with Kelly’s expertise and vision join the team, and we’re really excited about the new opportunities this will bring to many of our iconic brands. Her knowledge and connections within the entertainment and technology industry represent a massive addition to our team as we continue to bolster our investment within these growing sectors.”
Kelly Warnell, Head of Technology and Entertainment, Hearst UK said: “It is a massive honour to be working with such a fabulous portfolio of media titles. I am hugely excited by the scale and diversity of our readers, alongside the variety of creative opportunities available for entertainment and technology brands to find and connect with their audiences. It is my intention to deliver powerful, exciting and effective messaging to hero the industry that I am most passionate about. I already have very big plans...so watch this space!”
Laurence Mozafari, Editor-in-Chief, Digital Spy said: “Entertainment is more important to audiences than ever before, and there are so many avenues to explore to connect Digital Spy’s huge, highly-engaged audience of dedicated fans with partnerships that truly deliver. So we’re really excited to have someone on-board leading commercially for the UK’s biggest TV and movies website, especially with Kelly’s extensive industry experience.”
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