Academy’s Strategic Shift: Teni Melidonian Takes Helm as Chief Oscars Officer

In a move signaling a significant transition within the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, Teni Melidonian ascends to the newly crafted role of Chief Oscars Officer, announced by Academy CEO Bill Kramer. Melidonian, an Academy veteran, now spearheads strategy, talent relations, and event production for all prestigious award ceremonies under her new mantle. Read my take from the Academy’s official announcements and CEO Bill Kramer’s statements below!

Leadership Role & Responsibilities

Melidonian’s elevation marks her pivotal role in orchestrating seamless collaborations with Oscars producers, show hosts, and Disney/ABC—cementing her status as the primary conduit between the Academy and its broadcast partner. Her overarching responsibilities encompass steering marketing, advertising, and synergy strategies, amplifying global audience engagement.

As the torchbearer for the Academy’s broadcast ties, Melidonian stands at the helm, guiding Oscars ad sales and audience expansion initiatives in close partnership with Disney/ABC.

A Trailblazing Vision: MaryJane Partlow, EVP of Awards Production and Special Events

Complementing this strategic shift, MaryJane Partlow climbs the ranks to assume the role of Executive Vice President, Awards Production and Special Events. Partlow’s forte lies in orchestrating the Academy’s array of special events during the Oscars season, embodying innovation and excellence in event production.

Leadership in Special Events

Partlow’s expertise will shine in overseeing and producing marquee events like the Governors Awards, Nominations Announcement, Nominees Luncheon, Scientific and Technical Awards, and the prestigious Oscars Governors Ball—an essential cornerstone of the Oscars season.

Academy’s Vision: Kramer’s Perspective

CEO Bill Kramer, recognizing the pivotal significance of these appointments, voiced his optimism, highlighting Melidonian’s ingenuity and strategic insight that bolstered the success of the previous year’s Oscars. He lauded Partlow’s exceptional leadership in event production, underscoring the pivotal roles these positions play in shaping the Academy’s trajectory, especially as they approach the landmark 100th Oscars.

Melidonian’s journey within the Academy commenced in 2005, initially as a publicist, evolving to spearhead communication, publicity, brand strategy, and marketing. Her multifaceted experience includes a stint in Washington, D.C., notably at the Embassy of the Republic of Armenia.

Partlow, who joined the Academy in 2013, boasts an impressive career in producing events for renowned entities like Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Emirates Airline, and influential global philanthropic families—her expertise is poised to elevate the Academy’s hallmark events.

*Note: Information sourced from the Academy’s official announcements and CEO Bill Kramer’s statements.*

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About the Author

Dr. Jerry Doby Editor-in-Chief of The Hype Magazine, Media and SEO Consultant, Journalist, Ph.D. and retired combat vet. 2023 recipient of The President's Lifetime Achievement Award. Partner at THM Media Group. Member of the U.S. Department of Arts and Culture, the United States Press Agency and ForbesBLK.