PR Veteran Jeff Tobler Joins Universal TV Entertainment
After a globetrotting career with Expedia, Jeff Tobler is returning to the small screen. Variety has learned that Tobler has been appointed as the senior VP of awards and integrated communications at Universal Television Entertainment. This marks a homecoming of sorts for Tobler, who began his career at NBC Entertainment before moving to Warner Bros. Television Group. Most recently, he was VP and head of global media and talent relations, as well as influencer marketing, at Expedia Group Brands.
At Universal, Tobler will be tasked with creating campaign strategies that foster collaboration across the company's divisions. He will report to Tracy St. Pierre, executive VP of communications at Universal Television Entertainment Group. St. Pierre praises Tobler's creativity, innovative approach to campaigns, and long-standing relationships within the industry, highlighting their shared values of culture and collaboration.
Tobler's career also includes a stint as chief marketing officer at Ava DuVernay's Array, where he managed marketing, press strategy, social media, and brand partnerships. He worked on notable projects like the Ben & Jerry's collaboration with DuVernay, resulting in the 'Lights, Caramel, Action' ice cream flavor. Tobler's experience also includes a role at Warner Bros., where he was senior VP of TV publicity, communications, and social media, overseeing promotions for over 70 scripted series and key producer relationships.
St. Pierre highlights Tobler's memorable campaigns, such as the 'Friends' 25th anniversary celebration and the 'Big Bang Theory' handprint ceremony, which turned TV shows into cultural phenomena. Tobler also champions meaningful moments, like the inclusion of 'Mom' in the White House Champions of Change honors for its impact on raising awareness about substance abuse. Tobler's contributions to the industry include his work on the DC FanDome and the launch of Array Crew, as well as initiating the first 'Social Media Code of Conduct' at Warner Bros.
Tobler's diverse career also includes board memberships at non-profit organizations like Little Free Library and Array Alliance, and he co-founded the app Social Agent. St. Pierre emphasizes Tobler's role as a trusted mentor and advisor to industry executives, talent, and colleagues, and expresses her enthusiasm for his creativity and ingenuity in driving Universal Television Entertainment's efforts.
