Paramount Senior PR Exec Erin Calhoun Exits

As a follower who has closely observed the dynamic world of entertainment communications, I can’t help but admire Erin Calhoun‘s impressive career trajectory. Her seven-year tenure at Paramount Global, during which she led communications for Showtime and Paramount’s streaming division, is a testament to her dedication, strategic acumen, and ability to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the industry.


Erin Calhoun, who spent seven years managing communications for Showtime and Paramount’s streaming service, is set to depart from the company by the end of September.

Calhoun’s resignation coincides with widespread reductions at Paramount, as the corporation aims to simplify positions throughout various divisions. The organization has disclosed plans to terminate 15% of its U.S.-based employees, resulting in approximately 2,000 job losses, prior to its merger with Skydance Media.

Tom Ryan, President and CEO of Paramount Streaming, made an internal announcement about her departure, which was also followed by a goodbye message from Calhoun to the team on Thursday.

In his memo, Ryan acknowledged that Erin had skillfully constructed and managed a top-tier team during her time with us. This team effectively highlighted the progress and achievements of our premium content and exceptional services. He particularly admired her handling of high-quality marketing campaigns for Paramount+’s original series such as ‘Fellow Travelers,’ ‘The Curse,’ ‘Frasier,’ ‘Knuckles’ and ‘Special Ops: Lioness.’ Additionally, he commended her work in media relations for our product and brand projects like Pluto TV’s 10th anniversary.

Most recently, Calhoun held the position of Executive Vice President (EVP) overseeing communications for Paramount Streaming & Showtime and Cross-Company Publicity, a role she took on when Showtime merged with Paramount+ in January 2023. Prior to this, she was the EVP of communications for both Showtime and Paramount Television Studios. Calhoun began her tenure at Showtime in 2017 as Senior Vice President of Corporate Communications.

Previously in her professional journey, Calhoun had corporate communications positions at NBCUniversal Cable Entertainment and Discovery Communications. For a decade, she also worked independently for diverse clients such as TNT, TBS, Disney Channel, Discovery, and Game Show Network. Calhoun’s career started at NBC’s “Today” show where she served as an executive assistant and talent coordinator.

Read Calhoun’s memo to staff:

Team,

As I bid adieu after an astonishing seven-year journey at Paramount, I’m thrilled to share this news. It’s been a humbling experience to be part of such a prestigious studio, and I am deeply grateful for the priceless experiences, opportunities, and above all, the cherished friendships I’ve forged during my tenure here.

In the course of my stay, I’ve been privileged to head up the communications department initially at Showtime and later for Paramount Streaming. This journey has been incredibly fulfilling. I take immense pride in this team and all we have achieved together. We faced numerous hurdles and transitions, but through it all, we stood by each other, our eyes always on executing exceptional campaigns and breaking new records. Among our accomplishments are the launch of multiple award-winning shows, hosting hundreds of premier events and awards campaigns, and deftly managing a multitude of corporate communications initiatives.

Looking back at what we’ve achieved as a team, it’s not just the accomplishments that stand out, but rather the people I’ve been fortunate to work alongside – an exceptional group of talented individuals who have become more than just colleagues, they’ve become friends. As I embark on my next journey, I’ll carry with me memories that I will forever cherish. I am deeply grateful for every moment we shared, the laughter we had, and each one of you.

At the end of this month, I’ll be saying goodbye, but before I go, I hope we can catch up with one another. I wish you all the very best and ongoing success.

With heartfelt thanks,
Erin

Here is Ryan’s memo:

Hi Team

As a devoted cinema enthusiast, I’m thrilled to express that Erin Calhoun is bidding adieu to Paramount after seven fruitful years with the company. It’s been an absolute privilege for me to collaborate closely with Erin in her position as EVP, Head of Communications for Paramount Streaming & Showtime and Cross-Company Publicity. In this role, she effortlessly harmonized communications teams from Paramount+, Pluto TV, and Showtime, thereby fashioning a cohesive function that elegantly wove and propelled our compelling streaming storyline.

In the course of my time with the company, I had the privilege of working alongside a top-tier team that I was responsible for guiding. Our mission was to highlight the progress and achievements of our premium content and services, which we did exceptionally well. My responsibilities spanned across various departments such as Corporate Communications, Publicity, Events, Talent Relations, Awards, and Photography.

As a devoted cinephile, I’ve been deeply impressed by Erin’s remarkable accomplishments at Paramount. She skillfully steered the Showtime brand to new heights, sending off beloved series like Shameless and Billions, while launching hit shows such as Yellowjackets and Dexter: New Blood. During a vibrant phase in our company, Erin has shown exceptional talent in uniting teams from diverse corners of Paramount to showcase the strength of our integrated offering. Her collaborative spirit was evident during this year’s Super Bowl, where she played a pivotal role in managing Corporate Communications for the company.

I’m deeply appreciative of Erin’s countless valuable contributions to Paramount, particularly her unwavering cooperation and professional advice. Erin has been a reliable advisor and strategic ally, and I have no doubt she will achieve great things in her future. Let’s all take a moment to wish Erin a sincere farewell.

Tom

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2024-09-19 22:17