NBC News veteran Mark Kornblau is heading to SoftBank as global head of communications, Axios has learned.
Why it matters: Kornblau has been with NBCUniversal for over seven years. During his tenure, he helped lead the company through its transition into streaming and digital products. He also led negotiations for NBC News' and MSNBC's 2020 Democratic debates.
Details: Kornblau, who currently serves as executive vice president of communications for NBCUniversal News Group, will remain in New York.
He will report to SoftBank Chairman and CEO Masayoshi Son and Marcelo Claure, CEO of SoftBank Group International and COO of SoftBank.
Prior to his role at NBCU, Kornblau was managing director of corporate communications for JPMorgan Chase & Co. Before that, he was the director of communications and spokesperson for then-U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Susan Rice.
What they're saying: In a note to colleagues obtained by Axios, Kornblau said, "I’m grateful to have played a small part in the recent successes of this storied news organization, and in our continued innovation in the face of rapid change."
"I’ve genuinely loved working here."
What's next: Kornblau starts at SoftBank on Aug. 16.
