Lauren Whitney has been at the New Zealand Comedy Trust for 14 years, first as Sponsorship & Marketing Manager, Associate Director, General Manager and now as the Chief Executive. Prior to this, Lauren worked in broadcast media, advertising and music industries, and has vast experience across strategic planning, communications, branding, publicity, marketing and sponsorship.
Within her role Lauren is responsible for delivering to the strategic direction of the Trust, with a primary focus on delivering the annual NZ International Comedy Festival and securing funding. Additionally, she has a strong focus on fostering the growth of comedy as a performing arts in New Zealand and leads the Trust’s performer and audience development initiatives. Professional development is a passion for Lauren and within her role at the Trust, mentor’s artists along their career development path.
Prior to The Trust she worked with artists as the Publicity & Promotions Manager at EMI Music; International Label Manager at Warner Music; on marketing strategy for Coca-Cola; and in radio broadcasting at Channel Z and launching Kiwi FM.