David Katz, chief content officer of The Hollywood Reporter and a force behind some of its most ambitious investigations and cover stories, has been promoted to editorial director, THR editor-in-chief Maer Roshan announced Wednesday.
In his new role, Katz will help steer THR’s editorial coverage, working closely with Roshan on major editorial initiatives across digital, video, social, partnerships and events and aligning THR’s journalism with opportunities for growth and innovation. Katz, based in Los Angeles, will report to Roshan.
“Over the past two years, I’ve been continually impressed by Dave’s keen editorial talents, inside knowledge of the Hollywood ecosystem and his bold, expansive vision,” Roshan said. “I look forward to working with him to build on THR’s success while evolving the brand to meet the demands of a new media moment.”
“David brings a rare combination of creativity, strategic thinking, and a deep passion for storytelling,” said Jerry Ruiz, senior vp operations and finance at Penske Media Corporation. “Over the years, he’s played a vital role in shaping The Hollywood Reporter’s reputation as one of the most respected and innovative voices in the industry. We are thrilled to see him step into this leadership role and continue driving growth and innovation for the brand.”
Katz added: “The fearless, elevated and trusted journalism that distinguishes THR is as urgent as ever. Like Hollywood, we always need to evolve, and I’m excited to play an expanded role in our next evolution.”
Katz joined THR in 2017 as executive editor, after roles at Esquire, Vanity Fair and Time Out. His writing has appeared in GQ, Men’s Journal, Food & Wine and more.
Katz also worked in television, writing for CBS’ Bleep My Dad Says and TV Land’s The Soul Man and developing shows for CBS, ABC, HBO and others. “Having worked in the industry, you learn how challenging it is to make a real impact — it’s humbling, and I like to think it gives me a unique perspective.”
The news of Katz’s promotion comes a day after Roshan announced that former Vanity Fair correspondent David Canfield is joining THR as senior entertainment writer, contributing awards season coverage, celebrity profiles, festival reporting and more as part of the publication’s expanding entertainment team.
Both moves are part of THR’s continued evolution and follows recent expansions in the magazine’s coverage of awards, politics, style and technology. The publication has earned numerous accolades in recent years, including a National Magazine Award, an L.A. Press Club honor for best website, multiple Daytime Emmy nominations for its Off Script Roundtable series and a growing list of SoCal Journalism and Webby awards. The publication recently announced the launch of a new German edition, joining a roster of international THR outposts in India, Italy, Japan and Spain.
Roshan says more changes are coming soon. “At a transformative moment in the entertainment industry, THR is continuing to assemble the best team in the business.” he says. “Stay tuned.”
