Faulkner named first female CEO of Lewis.
Lewis Communications, a full-service marketing performance company, announces the acquisition of the firm from long-time CEO and owner Larry Norris. Norris, who served the company for over four decades, will remain as chairman and strategic advisor to Ellen Praytor Faulkner—the firm’s first female CEO.
Faulkner, who was most recently senior vice president and managing director, will lead an eight-member shareholder group of senior managers from all three of the firm’s offices.
As one of Lewis’ longtime managers, Faulkner has shaped the firm’s business and made a powerful impact on its culture. Her leadership style nurtures an environment that’s fun and rewarding. Born and raised in Mobile, Faulkner began her career at Lewis more than 32 years ago in account service. She quickly rose up the ranks and has managed the Mobile office for more than 20 years.
During his tenure, Norris led Lewis’ expansion from Mobile to Birmingham and to Nashville, and he grew the firm to 130 associates who manage over $100 million in marketing investments annually. Norris credits the firm’s success to its people, culture and partnership mindset. “I’ve been fortunate to spend my entire career with Lewis,” says Norris, “and I couldn’t be more proud of our team and the growth they’ve achieved for our clients and Lewis. But with growth and opportunity, comes change. And today, I’m pleased to announce our new ownership and transition plans.”
Norris hand-picked his senior management successors who selected Faulkner as the fourth CEO in the firm’s history, and the first woman to serve in that role. “I’m profoundly honored to be named CEO,” Faulkner said. “Collectively, these partners represent over 185 years at Lewis. We are a strong team and we are fully committed to expanding the legacy and success of our firm and clients."
In addition to Faulkner, the new shareholders are: Val Holman, Spencer Till and Carlton Wood in Birmingham. Gary Brandon, Jake Fagan, Robert Froedge and Ken Wilson represent the shareholders in Nashville.
Lewis is a marketing performance company specializing in proving and improving the financial impact of marketing on business performance. While known nationally for strategy and creativity, Lewis functions as a business growth partner for leading clients in the healthcare, banking, business-to-business and direct-to-consumer categories.
