Authentic Brands Group (Authentic), a global brand and entertainment platform, has appointed Lark-Marie Antón as its Chief Communications Officer. In her new role, Antón will oversee the company’s global communications and corporate brand strategy, with a focus on strengthening the visibility of its platform, expanding entertainment business and the cultural relevance of its portfolio.
Antón will report to Matt Maddox, President and Chief Executive Officer of Authentic Brands Group, and join the company’s Executive Committee. Announcing the appointment, Maddox highlighted her experience in shaping the narratives and reputations of prominent companies and individuals, along with her expertise in media and marketing. He noted that her leadership and creative approach would play an important role as the company continues to expand its reach and communicate its broader business story.
With over 20 years of experience spanning corporate communications, brand strategy, integrated marketing and reputation management, Antón joins Authentic from USA TODAY Co., formerly known as Gannett, where she served as Chief Communications and Brand Officer. During her tenure, she led enterprise communications and corporate brand strategy across the organisation’s national and more than 200 local media properties under the USA TODAY Network. She also spearheaded the company’s transition and rebranding from Gannett to USA TODAY Co.
Earlier in her career, Antón held senior communications and marketing positions at Hertz, Verizon, Aura and Loews Hotels. She also served as Deputy Press Secretary in the administration of former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg.
Commenting on her appointment, Antón described Authentic as a global platform representing some of the world’s most iconic brands and cultural assets. She expressed enthusiasm about joining the company, citing its more than 16 years of innovation and continued evolution, and said she looks forward to working with Maddox, founder and Executive Chairman Jamie Salter, and the wider leadership team to shape the company’s next phase of growth.
Authentic Brands Group owns and invests in iconic intellectual property and cultural assets, building brands through storytelling, premium content, live experiences and global commerce. Its portfolio spans more than 50 brands and reaches nearly one billion social media followers. The company works with more than 1,700 licensees and strategic partners across 150 countries, with its brands generating over $38 billion in annual systemwide sales worldwide. Its portfolio includes Reebok, Champion, Sports Illustrated, GUESS, Brooks Brothers, Juicy Couture, Nautica, Eddie Bauer, Barneys New York, Quiksilver, Billabong and other prominent consumer and entertainment brands.
