CLEVELAND, Ohio (July 1, 2024) – Brian C. Offutt, a Cleveland native and former senior executive at Viacom (now known as Paramount Global NASDAQ: PARA), has been named the new president of Vincent Lighting Systems (VLS).
VLS, a leading provider of production solutions for entertainment, architecture and live events, assists clients in creating immersive environments through awe-inspiring designs and meticulous technical execution.
Offutt brings senior leadership experience in global communications and entertainment companies to VLS as he returns to his hometown. A graduate and board member of University School in Hunting Valley, he will begin his new role July 1.
“We welcome Brian to the VLS family with great excitement,” said Bob Amjad, president of Canterbury Capital, parent company of VLS. “We are eager to work with such a talented and experienced new leader as VLS continues its 40-plus year history as the premier systems and event provider in our market area.”
Offutt comes to VLS after a long career in New York and Los Angeles in leadership positions at top entertainment and communications companies. He served as Chief Operating Officer of Lorne Michaels’ production company, Broadway Video Entertainment, providing post-production services to Showtime, CBS Sports and leading cable networks. He then spent nine years at Viacom in Senior Vice President positions across its Nickelodeon, Paramount Pictures and Comedy Central brands, before becoming Chief Operating Officer at Combs Enterprises.
Most recently, he served as the global head of Workforce Innovation & Operations at Weber Shandwick, a leading communications network with more than 40 offices around the world, and a division of Interpublic Group (NYSE: IPG).
“I’m honored and excited to join and lead the VLS team,’’ Offutt said. “VLS has proven again and again that it is the first choice for discerning and visionary customers who aim to create exceptional moments and memories for their audiences.”
VLS looks to continue and expand its innovative work under Offutt. The company is set to launch its large-scale “Illuminate CLE” lighting project with partner Destination Cleveland in August. The elaborate lighting installation will illuminate Public Square during the annual meeting of the American Society of Association Executives. Later plans are to expand it to create soft light displays and aerial visual effects on buildings in other popular areas of downtown.
Born and raised in Cleveland Heights, Offutt knows the great opportunities and people in Greater Cleveland make it a great place to live and work.
“I am proud and happy to be able to return to my beloved hometown of Cleveland and have the chance to work with top notch creative talent who have chosen to pursue their craft and make their homes in this wonderful region of the country,’’ Offutt said.
Said Amjad: “We look forward to Brian continuing the legacy built by Paul Vincent and the VLS team over decades of exceptional service and unmatched creativity for our many longtime customers.”
About Vincent Lighting Systems: Vincent Lighting Systems (VLS) is a leading provider of production solutions for a wide range of industries, including entertainment, architecture and live events. With more than 45 years of experience, VLS offers innovative products, comprehensive design services, and professional installations tailored to meet the unique needs of each project.
For media inquiries or further information, please contact Carolyn Heard at cheard@vls.com. You can also visit vls.com for additional details about our company and services.
