Justin B. Smith

Justin B. Smith is a media executive with extensive experience in global journalism, digital media, and business news. Smith began his career at the U.S. Department of State in West Africa before moving into international journalism at International Herald Tribune, where he contributed to the newspaper's conference business in Paris and Hong Kong. He later joined The Economist Group as head of corporate strategy, working in London, Hong Kong, and New York, and then served as president and publisher of The Week magazine, where he played a key role in launching its U.S. edition.

During his tenure as president of Atlantic Media, Smith led The Atlantic's transition from a print-centric magazine to a multi-platform digital brand. He oversaw the development of digital and events businesses, expanded the magazine's audience, and returned the brand to profitability. Under Smith's leadership, Atlantic Media launched digital platforms such as Quartz and Defense One. He also co-founded Breaking Media, a group of specialized digital publications including Above the Law and Dealbreaker.

Smith served as CEO of Bloomberg Media, where he directed the company's digital and global transformation. Bloomberg Media Group includes Bloomberg's television, radio, magazine, conferences, and digital businesses worldwide. Smith managed a broad portfolio of media properties and guided the company's expansion across platforms and markets.

Smith founded Semafor to address the need for global, independent journalism not centered on a Western perspective. Semafor, launched with journalist Ben Smith, has established itself as an independent global news company. The outlet's World Economy Summit is recognized as a significant event for global leaders.

Smith is a graduate of Georgetown University's School of Foreign Service, an Aspen Institute Henry Crown Fellow, and a lifetime member of the Council on Foreign Relations. He serves on the boards of Georgetown University and the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation. Smith frequently speaks at industry forums, including the Milken Institute Global Conference and Asia Society, focusing on the future of media, original reporting, and the importance of global perspectives in journalism.