Brand&Culture brings the latest in executive changes across marketing, media, advertising, and culture.
Sharif Durhams Takes Charge as New Managing Editor of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
In an exciting development, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution (AJC) has announced the appointment of Sharif Durhams as its new managing editor of news. Known for his solid journalism background including leadership positions at NLGJA: The Association of LGBTQ+ Journalists and the National Association of Black Journalists, Durhams is expected to bring a fresh and innovative approach to the role. His appointment comes at a crucial time as the media landscape continues to evolve rapidly, and the importance of trusted news sources like AJC grows even more critical.
In an announcement today, the AJC pointed to Durhams’ breadth of experience, proven leadership skills, and commitment to journalistic integrity place him in a strong position to navigate these challenges.
“Sharif’s background makes him an outstanding fit for our newsroom as we continue to build toward our digital future and deliver our journalism across multiple platforms,” AJC Editor-in-Chief Leroy Chapman said in a memo to the newsroom. “He is seasoned and proven. And there’s this bonus: He knows Atlanta, having lived and worked here during his time at CNN.”
As managing editor, he will play a pivotal role in shaping the news strategy and driving AJC’s commitment to delivering high-quality news to its readers.
Flight Story Hires Ex-Google Chief Mo Gawdat as Chief AI Officer
In a remarkable hire, Flight Story Marketing Agency has appointed former Google X Chief Business Officer, Mo Gawdat, as its Chief AI Officer. The decision to onboard Gawdat showcases Flight Story’s focus on integrating cutting-edge technology into its strategic planning and service offerings. Gawdat’s extensive experience and understanding of AI technologies will undoubtedly steer Flight Story toward innovative and effective marketing solutions.
Steven Bartlett, Flight Story’s leader and host of highly-rated podcast, “The Diary of a CEO,” expressed his excitement and highlighted Gawdat’s unique expertise as key to navigating the exciting yet challenging landscape of AI in marketing.
“My relationship with Mo Gawdat that started as a two-hour conversation about happiness a year ago, has evolved into a wonderful business relationship and friendship and I couldn’t be happier to have him on board,” Barlett says.
Bartlett emphasized the responsibility to utilize AI ethically while maximizing its potential to enhance marketing strategies.
Gawdat appeared in an “emergency episode” of Bartlett’s podcast last week on the dangers of AI.
Rozalia Project Welcomes Allyson Wilson as Communications Officer
In a strategic move aimed at amplifying their environmental advocacy, the Rozalia Project for a Clean Ocean has appointed Allyson Wilson as communications officer. Wilson brings with her a wealth of experience, having served as senior director of communications for Closed Loop Partners and director of global communications for Institute for Sustainable Communities.
Earlier this year, Wilson launched “This Is Climate Conscious,” a project dedicated to climate change storytelling. The initiative seeks to tell stories about sustainability, the circular economy, and the impacts of climate change and marine debris. It also helps businesses tell their sustainability stories to help customers understand organizational commitments to the environment.
