Daily Front Row

2012 November 7

Austin Smedstad Named PR Director at John Varvatos

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Austin Smedstad
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(NEW YORK) John Varvatos has poached Starworks' senior PR director Austin Smedstad. Effective immediately, Smedstad will serve as the brand's PR director, and will orchestrate all PR/communication activities and brand strategies for John Varvatos globally. While managing press duties in the U.S., Smedstad will also oversee media events, store openings, fashion shows, charity projects, and brand collaborations. He will report directly to Donna Faircloth, John Varvatos' VP of global marketing and communications.

"I am thrilled to join the John Varvatos team and excited to oversee the public relations for this renowned men's lifestyle brand," Smedstad told The Daily. "I'm so impressed and inspired by John's affinity for music, philanthropy, style, and fashion design. His distinct vision has built an industry-leading and celebrated brand, and we're excited for its continued global expansion in 2013."

Smedstad, an NYU grad, began his PR career as a senior account executive at Siren PR in September 2002. After nearly six years, he joined Starworks Group as the associate PR director of fashion and accessories from July 2008 to April 2009. He was appointed to PR director in May 2009, and promoted to senior PR director in August 2010. Throughout his tenure at Starworks, Smedstad worked with a range of clients from ASOS.com and AG Adriano Goldschmied to Alternative Apparel and Jack Spade.
MARIA DENARDO