ACADEMY BEEFS UP PR DEPARTMENT

Sean Smith has been tapped to lead the overall communications strategy for the Recording Academy in the newly created role of Executive Vice President of Communications. He reports to Co-President Valeisha Butterfield Jones and has in his purview, among other things, “reputation management.”

In addition, longtime Grammy publicity exec Andie Cox has been promoted to Vice President of Communications. She reports to Smith.

Smith, previously EVP of Corporate Counsel at Porter Novelli, will work with the executive office to develop the Academy's communications strategy and contribute to the strategic planning process for the organization with a global focus.

"The Academy continues to expand the talent and breadth of experience within its leadership team with the appointments of Sean and Andie to their new roles in the communications department," said Harvey Mason Jr., CEO of the Recording Academy. "Together with their extensive knowledge and innovation in the field, they will play a pivotal role in enhancing our communications efforts as we head into a global sphere."

The Recording Academy was among the clients Smith worked on at Porter Novelli, where he developed and led corporate-reputation campaigns and managed issues for brands. He was previously Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs at the Department of Homeland Security during the Obama administration.

Cox will be responsible for supporting Smith in the creation of the overall communications strategy for the Recording Academy and implementing and executing communications plans and promotions for the Grammy Awards and Grammy Week initiatives. She also leads public-relations efforts for the Academy's 12 chapters and spearheads communications strategies for its advocacy department, awards process and diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.