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Leading the charge: Andrew Stewart becomes NATO’s chief communications officer
Elevating cinema communications
Andrew Stewart has been appointed as the new chief communications officer for the National Association of Theatre Owners (NATO), marking a significant shift in the organization’s strategic direction. Stewart will spearhead communications and media relations, fostering greater awareness of theater exhibition within the film industry. He steps into this role with a wealth of experience, having previously worked with notable companies like 42West and Imax.
A strategic pivot in theater exhibition
A seasoned communicator
Based in Los Angeles, Stewart will report directly to Michael O’Leary, the president and CEO of NATO. His primary mission? Leading a comprehensive communications strategy aimed at promoting a substantial $2.2 billion investment by theater owners to enhance and upgrade theaters over the next three years. This initiative is not just about technological improvements but aims to bolster the overall cinematic experience for moviegoers.
Stewart’s role will also involve close collaboration with the Cinema Foundation to invigorate theater attendance and participation in CinemaCon, NATO’s prominent annual exhibition convention. CinemaCon is where industry leaders converge, setting trends and shaping the future of cinema exhibition.
Crafting narratives in modern media
Highlights of Stewart’s career
Stewart’s appointment is a testament to his impressive background. His tenure at 42West as Vice President saw him lead the strategic communications division, fostering deep industry relationships and expertise. Before that, his roles at Participant and Imax had him working on landmark campaigns for films like Wonder, The Post, RBG, and Green Book. At Imax, he was instrumental in the promotion of major releases, including Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Jurassic World, and the Fast and Furious franchise.
Stewart’s journey began in journalism as a reporter covering independent film and theatrical exhibition. His work at Variety honed his skills in narrative storytelling and deep industry analysis. His profound understanding of both the creative and commercial aspects of the industry uniquely positions him to drive NATO’s communications forward.
Visionary leadership
O’Leary has expressed confidence in Stewart’s ability to navigate the complex media landscape. O’Leary notes, “Andrew will be invaluable in ensuring that exhibition remains a pivotal part of the ongoing conversation about the future of filmed entertainment. His deep passion for the theater experience and his strategic vision are exactly what we need to innovate and grow.”
O’Leary’s remarks highlight Stewart’s intrinsic drive and comprehensive understanding necessary for elevating the industry’s narrative.
A personal passion for storytelling
Stewart sees this opportunity as a natural extension of his career-long commitment to storytelling. His enthusiasm is palpable as he states, “For me, storytelling is at the heart of communications. Joining a venerable organization like NATO to narrate their journey on behalf of the exhibition community is nothing short of perfect. I couldn’t be more excited to roll up my sleeves and focus on this new chapter of theatrical exhibition.”
His approach to storytelling goes beyond traditional media relations, focusing on engaging and dynamic narratives that resonate with both industry insiders and the public. Stewart’s vision includes innovative communication strategies that reflect the evolving nature of media, emphasizing digital platforms and new forms of audience engagement.
Future aspirations
The future of theater exhibition looks promising with Stewart at the helm of NATO’s communications. His robust strategy is expected to foster innovation within cinema exhibition, driving not just growth but meaningful change.
Shared passion and community involvement
Stewart’s appointment also underscores his commitment to community engagement. Working closely with the Cinema Foundation, he aims to reinvigorate moviegoing culture, especially post-pandemic, highlighting the intrinsic value of shared cinematic experiences. His involvement in CinemaCon ensures that industry professionals remain aligned with the latest trends and innovations in theater exhibition.
Going beyond upgrades
The planned $2.2 billion investment is more than an upgrade; it’s an emphatic statement about the future of cinema. Stewart’s communications strategy will ensure that this message resonates clearly across all platforms, reinforcing the narrative that theaters are essential cultural hubs.
Stewart’s multifaceted role positions him as a vital architect in crafting the future of cinema exhibition. His journey from journalism to strategic communications exemplifies a unique blend of expertise, making him an unparalleled asset to NATO.
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