In December 2023, INMA and Google News Initiative (GNI) awarded their fourth annual Elevate Scholarship to 50 news media professionals from 31 countries. This series features these impressive media professionals who are shaping our industry.

When Savannah Carracino entered the news media industry, she was already a proven human resources professional who earned her first HR degree from the Community College of the Air Force, then followed it up with both a bachelor’s degree and masters of science in human resources management.

Before discovering the news industry, she worked in senior living and rehabilitiation centres in addition to being a human resources specialist for the U.S. Air Force.

Now, as a director of human resources for WEHCO Media, Inc., in Little Rock, Arkansas, Savannah draws upon her diverse background to understand and support each department.

“I strategically engage with various facets of the industry, including subscriptions, products, data, advertising, and the overall operations of newsrooms,” she explained. “My involvement goes beyond traditional HR responsibilities and extends into shaping the company's success.”

To do that, she collaborates with marketing and product development teams to identify and nurture talent that understands subscription-based models:

“The specific departments recruit professionals who can craft compelling content and marketing strategies and build a strong customer service team to retain subscribers. I work with them to reestablish essential responsibilities that align with current trends and markets.”

Savannah assists in recruiting programme analysts to help the company make data-driven decisions and works to foster a data-driven culture within the organisation. Her reach also extends to the advertising department and the newsrooms, where she works closely with leaders to ensure the efficient operation of the team. That includes recruiting sales representatives, journalists, and designers, fostering a diverse and inclusive organisation, and supporting talent development.

Beyond recruiting talent, Savannah works to ensure that the company provides an environment that supports their individual growth and personal development:

“My team and I address workplace culture and mental health to ensure a resilient and productive company,” she said, noting her role is that of a strategic partner who connects human capital to the organisation’s overarching goals.

“My team and I can drive success, innovation, and sustainability in the rapidly evolving media industry by understanding the interplay of subscriptions, products, data, advertising, and the newsroom's operational aspects. My role involves hiring and shaping the workforce, culture, and business strategies to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the digital era.”

As an Elevate Scholarship recipient, she looks forward to further diversifying her business skills to better navigate the rapidly evolving media landscape: “I can further enhance my knowledge, skills, and networks, contributing to a more robust and adaptive news industry.”

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