Netflix taps Disney's Caitlin Conant for new D.C.-based role
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Photo: Courtesy of Caitlin Conant
Netflix has hired Caitlin Conant as head of U.S. policy communications and external affairs, according to a memo obtained by Axios.
Why it matters: It's part of a broader effort by the streamer to invest in its D.C. presence as regulators take a closer look at its business.
Zoom in: In her new role, Conant will report to Kelly Pakula, who leads corporate communications.
- Conant will be responsible for helping Netflix develop a more proactive strategy in Washington by deepening relationships with key media and public affairs stakeholders.
- While based in D.C., she will be responsible for driving Netflix's public affairs strategy at the national and local levels.
- Stephanie Shih, who leads Netflix's external affairs team, will report to Conant as part of a new effort to elevate the team's work.
Reality check: Conant brings extensive media and political experience to the role.
- She joined Disney four years ago at the height of the entertainment giant's fight with Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. As vice president of policy communications and public affairs, she helped the company manage and mitigate that crisis.
- Previously, she served as political director at CBS News. Before her time in media, Conant was a senior communications official for several Republican politicians, including Sen. Rob Portman and then-presidential candidate Sen. Marco Rubio.
The big picture: Netflix faces more pressure to defend its business to policymakers in D.C. and around the world as it grows more profitable, popular and influential.
- Its bid for Warner Bros. Discovery highlighted how important having roots in Washington will be for future business deals and achieving its policy goals.
- Last year, the company hired veteran D.C. trade attorney Clete Willems, who has experience working for both the Trump and Obama administrations, as its chief global affairs officer.
What's next: Conant will stay with Disney through June 19 before transitioning to Netflix.
