Lesley Mc Kenzie
About Lesley Mc Kenzie
Lesley McKenzie is a Managing Editor with extensive experience in the media industry, having held various editorial roles at notable publications such as Variety and The Hollywood Reporter. She possesses a dual U.S./U.K. citizenship and has a background in International Relations and Journalism, which informs her culturally nuanced approach to content creation.
Work at The Ankler
Lesley McKenzie serves as the Managing Editor at The Ankler, a position she has held since 2022. In this role, she oversees editorial operations and content strategy, ensuring that the publication delivers timely and relevant insights into the entertainment industry. Her experience in high-pressure environments allows her to manage multiple tasks effectively while maintaining a focus on quality and audience engagement.
Previous Experience in Media
Prior to her role at The Ankler, McKenzie held several significant positions in the media industry. She worked as Managing Editor at Variety from 2019 to 2022, contributing to the publication's reputation as a leading source of entertainment news. Her experience also includes roles at Niche Media, where she served as Deputy Editor and Research Editor, and at Modern Luxury as Editor in Chief. Additionally, she contributed to The Hollywood Reporter as a Contributing Writer and Editor from 2013 to 2019.
Education and Expertise
Lesley McKenzie holds a Bachelor of Science in International Relations from Georgetown University's Walsh School of Foreign Service and a Master of Arts in Journalism from New York University. Her educational background equips her with a strong foundation in both global affairs and media, enhancing her ability to create content that resonates with diverse audiences. She specializes in organizational change management and product monetization, particularly within legacy newsrooms and journalism startups.
Global Background and Perspective
McKenzie has a global upbringing across Europe and the Middle East, which informs her culturally nuanced approach to leadership and storytelling. Her dual U.S./U.K. citizenship further enriches her perspective, allowing her to connect with a wide range of audiences. This background influences her content creation, enabling her to engage effectively with international audiences, including industry insiders and pop culture enthusiasts.
Skills in High-Pressure Environments
Lesley McKenzie excels in high-pressure, deadline-driven environments. Her ability to pivot seamlessly between various roles, including operations and content creation, demonstrates her versatility and adaptability. This skill set is particularly valuable in the fast-paced media landscape, where timely and impactful storytelling is essential.