Universal Pictures has named Teri Everett as its new executive VP of global communications for Universal Filmed Entertainment, the studio announced Tuesday. She replaces outgoing communications chief Kori Bernards, who will help facilitate Everett’s transition from Time Inc. to Universal.
Everett will relocate from New York and begin working at Universal on August 17. She will be responsible for all worldwide external and internal communications for the company overseeing media relations, executive and employee communications, as well as all box office reporting.
Everett will report directly to Jeff Shell, chairman of Universal Filmed Entertainment, who led the search to replace Bernards along with Universal Pictures chairman Donna Langley.
“I’ve known Teri for many years and her experience across the media landscape will prove invaluable to Ron, Donna and me as we navigate the exciting challenges and opportunities ahead. She is a well-respected, skilled communicator who brings a wealth of knowledge, proven strategic capabilities and breadth of contacts at a critical time for our business,” said Shell.
“We are so pleased that Teri is joining the team. As her track record shows, she is a leading communicator in our industry who will be an important advisor to our entire team and play a strong role in helping us achieve and communicate our business goals,” added Langley.
Bernards joined Universal seven years ago and is stepping away to spend time with her family. She gave Universal brass advance notice of her plans to exit the studio, which has had plenty of time to search for her replacement.
Everett is well-suited for the demanding job, having previously worked for News Corp and the Fox Entertainment Group. She most recently was executive VP of corporate communications for Time Inc. in New York, where she was responsible for managing all aspects of corporate communications, including media relations, executive and employee communications, corporate philanthropy and social responsibility. Earlier in her career, Everett headed communications for ABC News and spent several years at Ogilvy & Mather Public Relations in Washington, D.C., where she advised clients in the telecommunications and energy fields.