Lions Festivals appoints new Managing Director

Lions Festivals has appointed Jose Papa to the role of Managing Director. Jose is currently CEO of another business – WGSN – owned by Ascential, Lions Festivals parent company and was previously Corporate Strategy Executive Director at Estadão, Cannes Lions’ official representative in Brazil. In his new role, which will be effective as of September 1, 2016, he will head up and manage the Lions Festivals four annual global celebrations; Cannes Lions, Lion’s Health, Lions Innovation and Lions Entertainment, as well as regional events including; eurobest, Dubai Lynx, Spikes Asia and the Tangrams.
“Clearly this role attracted a lot of interest and I am delighted that Jose has agreed to join Lions Festivals,” says Philip Thomas, CEO, Ascential. “He has led WGSN to unprecedented success and with a deep understanding of our brand and huge international experience, he was the outstanding candidate for the role.”
Jose adds, “Lions Festival is the definitive global destination for creativity and inspiration. A legacy built by bringing together the world’s brightest minds and awarding the most innovative work. It is a privilege to carry on the heritage and further lead an exciting new phase of continued success.”