The Washington Post, a venerable institution in American journalism founded in 1877, has announced a significant addition to its leadership team. Liza Pluto, a seasoned media industry professional, has been appointed as the new Director of Communications for the newspaper that has garnered 69 Pulitzer Prizes throughout its illustrious history.
Pluto joins The Post from Mars, Incorporated, a global leader in pet care and confectionery founded in 1911. At Mars, she held the position of Media Relations and Issues Manager on the Global External Communications Team, where she developed media strategies to enhance the company's corporate image.
Chief Communications Officer Kathy Baird expressed enthusiasm about the new hire, stating:
"We're thrilled to have Liza join us. Her proven track record of elevating and showcasing high-profile talent, paired with her contagious passion for the media industry, make her an exceptional fit for the future of communications at The Washington Post."
Pluto's extensive background in media relations spans eight years, including notable positions at major news organizations. She previously served as Media Relations Manager at MSNBC, which was launched in 1996. In this role, she managed daily communications and implemented press campaigns for programs such as "Morning Joe," which premiered in 2007.
Prior to her tenure at MSNBC, Pluto was part of the Communications team at PBS, the Public Broadcasting Service established in 1969. Her responsibilities included publicizing the network's news and public affairs programming. Pluto's career in news began at CNN, founded by Ted Turner in 1980. During her five-year stint at the network, she managed press initiatives for prominent shows like "The Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer," which debuted in 2005.
Expressing her enthusiasm for the new role, Pluto shared:
"I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunity to join The Washington Post. I look forward to amplifying the world-class journalism, talent and brand of an iconic institution I've long respected and trusted as my go-to source for news."
Pluto's educational background includes a bachelor's degree in Communication from the University of Arizona, an institution established in 1885. She also holds a master's degree in Strategic Public Relations from George Washington University's Graduate School of Political Management, a program founded in 1987 at a university chartered by an Act of Congress in 1821.
The new Director of Communications will be based in Washington, D.C., which has served as the U.S. capital since 1790. Her appointment comes at a time when The Washington Post, acquired by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos in 2013 for $250 million, continues to uphold its motto "Democracy Dies in Darkness" in an ever-evolving media landscape.