Ex-Obama press secretary Robert Gibbs to lead Warner Bros. Discovery PR

Robert Gibbs, a former White House press secretary under President Obama, is set to join Warner Bros. Discovery as the head of its communications team.

After years in the private sector leading public relations efforts, Gibbs will now oversee public relations and public affairs during a turbulent time for the media industry. Warner Bros. Discovery’s stock is at a historic low, and the industry is grappling with rapid changes in consumer behavior.

Warner Bros. Discovery, which owns CNN, has seen some success with hits like “Barbie” and its TNT sports division. However, like many of its peers, it has struggled to attract moviegoers this year. Television ratings and cable subscriptions continue to fall, and the company faces challenges in renewing its expensive NBA package.

Gibbs’ role won’t be to solve the broader media industry’s problems but to improve Warner Bros. Discovery’s communication strategy. The company has faced difficulties in presenting its plans to fans amidst cancellations of costly programs, resource cutbacks, and a gradual reboot of the DC Entertainment brand.

CEO David Zaslav expressed confidence in Gibbs’ abilities, stating, “His incredible track record of advancing strong communications and public affairs strategies will make Robert an asset to WBD as we focus on nurturing our internal culture, deepening our connections to consumers and partners, and innovating across our businesses.”

Zaslav highlighted Gibbs’ history of positioning companies for success during transformative periods, calling him “the perfect person to assume this role.”

Gibbs previously served as communications director for Obama’s 2004 Senate and 2008 presidential campaigns before becoming the first White House press secretary in Obama’s administration. Most recently, he was a partner at consultancy Bully Pulpit International, and prior to that, he was McDonald’s chief communications officer.

Gibbs will succeed Katie Martin Kelly and Laura Watson, who have been interim communications directors since January following the departure of Nathaniel Brown. Gibbs will begin his new role on August 5.