The Television Publicity Executives Committee (TPEC) has unveiled its leadership structure for the upcoming year, retaining familiar figures and introducing new talent. Wendy Zocks is set to continue her esteemed tenure as chair, guiding the organization into its next phase. Alongside this announcement, TPEC is launching a significant new program, TPEConnect, aimed at enhancing professional collaboration and development within the television publicity community. The organization also plans to expand its annual awards ceremony with fresh categories, reflecting the evolving landscape of global television production and promotional strategies.
TPEC Appoints 2026 Leadership and Launches Strategic Initiatives
On Monday, January 26, 2026, the Television Publicity Executives Committee (TPEC) officially revealed its leadership team for the new year, featuring a mix of seasoned professionals and a notable new addition. Wendy Zocks, founder of Wendy Zocks Public Relations and a veteran publicist with a distinguished career spanning major networks and streaming platforms since 1998, will once again assume her role as chair. This marks her fifth consecutive year at the helm of the organization, demonstrating her sustained commitment and leadership.
The executive committee will see the return of several prominent industry figures, including Todd Beck, CEO of BECK Media & Marketing; executive Irina Bobker; Brian Eley, SVP of communications at Crunchyroll; Eileen Quast, global head of PR at MGM+; executive Alice Rao; Joe Schlosser, founder of Schlosser Communications; and Nancy Insua, publicist at Disney Branded Television.
A significant new appointment to the executive committee is Natalia Cedres, NBCUniversal's VP of communications, awards strategy, and festivals. Cedres brings a wealth of experience, having served as the lead publicist for all six seasons of the critically acclaimed series This Is Us and recently spearheading the campaign for Saturday Night Live's 50th season. Her addition is expected to further strengthen TPEC's leadership and strategic direction, particularly in New York City.
In a forward-looking move, TPEC is introducing TPEConnect, a groundbreaking initiative designed to foster enhanced networking, facilitate problem-solving, and provide mutual career support among television publicity professionals. This program aims to create a more interconnected and resilient community within the industry.
Furthermore, TPEC announced that its fourth annual TPEC Awards will feature two exciting new categories: international series and press event. Submissions for these prestigious awards will close on March 30, with the eagerly anticipated awards ceremony scheduled to take place in June. These new categories highlight TPEC's commitment to recognizing excellence across a broader spectrum of television publicity achievements, acknowledging the growing importance of global content and innovative promotional events.
In a statement, Ms. Zocks expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming year and TPEC's strategic direction. She warmly welcomed Ms. Cedres to the executive committee, noting the expansion of TPEC's presence in New York City. Zocks emphasized the committee's dedication to supporting its members through evolving industry challenges, asserting that TPEC will continue to be an invaluable resource and provide new opportunities through the TPEConnect initiative.
This comprehensive approach to leadership, professional development, and industry recognition underscores TPEC's ongoing mission to serve and uplift the television publicity sector.
The continued dedication of experienced leaders like Wendy Zocks, coupled with the infusion of fresh perspectives from figures such as Natalia Cedres, highlights a commitment to evolution and adaptation within the television publicity sector. The introduction of TPEConnect is a particularly inspiring step, recognizing the critical need for robust professional networks and shared knowledge in a rapidly changing media landscape. This initiative not only strengthens individual careers but also elevates the collective expertise of the industry. Furthermore, the expansion of the TPEC Awards to include international series and press events reflects a thoughtful embrace of global trends and diverse forms of promotional excellence. It's a clear signal that the organization is attuned to the dynamic nature of television production and public relations, fostering a more inclusive and forward-thinking environment for all its members.