EXCLUSIVE: Universal Pictures EVP of national publicity, Alissa Grayson, has made the decision to leave later this fall after 22 years with the studio. Grayson came to Universal Pictures in 1994. She worked her way up the ranks and was promoted from director to VP to SVP, before assuming the EVP role in 2010, where she manages all publicity staff members based in Los Angeles and New York.
Stated Michael Moses, co-president of worldwide marketing: “Alissa has been such a big part of what makes Universal good for so long, it’s hard to imagine it without her. It’s been wonderful to work with someone you admire as an executive and as a person in equal measure.”
Grayson oversaw publicity campaigns during some of Universal’s biggest and most profitable years, including 2015’s record-breaking run as the studio grossed an astounding $6.9B in global grosses, marking the highest-grossing year ever in Hollywood. She has spearheaded unique campaigns including some of the studios most enduring franchises including Despicable Me, Fast & Furious, Pitch Perfect, Bourne, The Purge, as well as prestige films such as Les Miserables and Steve Jobs.
Grayson looks forward to spending more time with her three young children and husband, Kevin Grayson, president of domestic distribution at STX Entertainment.
Said Grayson, “For 23 years, Universal has been my home away from home. It is with great sadness that I say goodbye but the time has come to concentrate on my one true home. The unflagging support I have been given from Ron, Jeff, Donna, Josh and Michael continues to be a rare gift indeed. Theirs is a kindness that I have never taken for granted. I have been wildly fortunate to share so many laughs, tears and imaginative campaigns with the world’s smartest, most creative and endearing publicity group. My love for all of them, alongside everyone with whom I’ve worked at Universal, is immeasurable. As much as it breaks my heart to leave, the thought of cooking a proper breakfast for my three kids, and not throwing some frozen waffles at them as I yell ‘Get in the car!’ has me smiling ear to ear.”
