Liza Burnett Fefferman, a prominent figure in the entertainment communications sector, is stepping down from her role at Paramount. Her departure marks a significant transition for the company amidst notable industry changes.
Liza Burnett Fefferman Steps Down from Paramount Communications
Liza Burnett Fefferman, the head of communications at Showtime/MTV Entertainment Studios & Paramount Media Networks and co-head of MTV Documentary Films, has announced her departure from the company in an internal memo to staff on Wednesday.
Significant Timing Amid Company Changes
This announcement comes just days after the FCC approved the Paramount-Skydance merger and a day before David Ellison’s inaugural public address as the new chief executive of the company. Fefferman joined Viacom in 2016 to lead communications for VH1 and Logo. Over her nine-year tenure, she expanded her responsibilities to include MTV, CMT, Comedy Central, Paramount Network, Smithsonian Channel, TV Land, and Showtime. Notably, she led award-winning campaigns for major programs such as Yellowstone and The Daily Show, and was instrumental in the publicity efforts for the upcoming MTV Video Music Awards scheduled for September 7.
A Grateful Farewell
In her memo, Fefferman expressed her gratitude, stating, “Grateful doesn’t even begin to cut it. In 2016, I came to Viacom to run Communications for Logo and VH1, joining a small but mighty group who consistently outperformed expectations. Nearly a decade later, our remit has substantially grown, but that same hustle, impeccable work ethic, and results-oriented commitment remain steadfast.”
Leadership in Documentary Filmmaking
In addition to her communications role, Fefferman co-headed MTV Documentary Films, launching the division with Sheila Nevins. Prior to this, she played a significant role at Radius, the indie-film company co-founded by Tom Quinn, which paved the way for his successful Neon banner.
Reflections on a Shared Journey
Fefferman reflected on the challenges and triumphs faced during her tenure, saying, “From the seismic shifts in media to a global pandemic to personal triumphs and heartbreaking losses, we navigated the highs and lows together, having each other’s backs every step of the way.”
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Full Memo Available
Read Fefferman’s complete memo below:
To The Best Team + Dear Colleagues,
Grateful doesn’t even begin to cut it.
In 2016, I came to Viacom to run Communications for Logo and VH1 joining a small but mighty group who consistently outpunched their weight.
Nearly a decade later, our remit has substantially grown but that same hustle, impeccable work ethic and results-oriented commitment, remain steadfast.
You define teamwork, set the bar sky high with creativity, innovation, and a dedication to excellence yielding extraordinary results. And beyond the buzzy “surround sound” we strive for on every campaign, premiere and tentpole, I’m equally proud of the grace and professionalism shown when navigating sticky situations and finding optimal solutions.
Together we’ve had the privilege of championing some of the company’s most significant milestones – helping to launch Paramount+, building the Taylor Sheridan universe, welcoming back both TV’s most beloved serial killer and everyone’s favorite late night host, as well as co-founding MTV Documentary Films with the one and only Sheila Nevins – all while doing good along the way.
Our boundary-breaking social impact initiatives across Mental Health Action and Youth Voter Access drove movements and changed minds while our best-in-class content was recognized by the Oscars®, Peabodys, Globes, SAG and the Emmys® with 50 wins.
From the seismic shifts in media to a global pandemic to personal triumphs and heartbreaking losses, we navigated the highs and lows together, having each other’s backs every step of the way.
As I begin the next chapter, my warmest thanks, and best wishes to a phenomenal group of all stars.
Liza
