Shore Fire Media Names Angela Barkan CEO as Founder Marilyn Laverty Elevates to Chairman
NEW YORK — Shore Fire Media, a powerhouse in the entertainment communications industry, announced a major leadership evolution today. Angela Barkan has been named Chief Executive Officer, taking the helm from founder Marilyn Laverty, who will transition into the role of Chairman of Shore Fire Media and Senior Advisor to its parent company, Dolphin Entertainment.
A Strategic Shift for a PR Powerhouse
The leadership change marks a new chapter for the firm, which has long been recognized as a premier destination for high-profile music and entertainment talent. As Chairman, Laverty will pivot her focus toward Shore Fire’s long-term strategic growth while providing high-level counsel to the executive team. Crucially for the industry, Laverty will continue to play a hands-on role in representing her legendary roster of longtime clients, including Bruce Springsteen.
In her additional capacity as Senior Advisor to Dolphin Entertainment, Laverty will work closely with the parent company’s leadership to identify synergy opportunities across its broad portfolio of PR, marketing, and content production assets.
Angela Barkan: A Visionary Leader for the Modern Era
Angela Barkan steps into the CEO role with a wealth of experience and a reputation for excellence in artist development and brand storytelling. Since joining Shore Fire in 2023, Barkan has been instrumental in modernizing the firm’s approach to media relations in an increasingly digital landscape.
Prior to joining Shore Fire, Barkan spent decades at Sony Music, where she served as Senior Vice President of Marketing at Sony Music Masterworks. Her deep-rooted connections within the industry and her history of overseeing complex global campaigns make her a natural fit to lead the firm’s daily operations and future expansion.
The Legacy of Shore Fire Media
Founded by Marilyn Laverty in 1990, Shore Fire Media has grown from a boutique agency into a dominant force in the industry. The firm is known for representing a diverse and prestigious client list that spans genres and generations, from emerging indie darlings to global icons. Under Laverty’s leadership, the company became synonymous with integrity, creative strategy, and an unwavering commitment to the arts.
“Marilyn Laverty is a pioneer whose vision has shaped the landscape of music PR for over three decades,” industry analysts noted following the announcement. “By elevating Angela Barkan—a leader with both major label and agency experience—Shore Fire is positioning itself to navigate the complexities of the modern media environment while maintaining the prestige established by its founder.”
Looking Ahead
The transition comes at a time of robust growth for Shore Fire Media and Dolphin Entertainment. With Barkan at the helm of daily operations and Laverty focusing on the broader horizon, the firm is expected to double down on its digital capabilities while expanding its reach into film, television, and literary circles.
As the entertainment industry continues to evolve, the partnership between Laverty and Barkan signals a blend of traditional expertise and forward-thinking innovation, ensuring that Shore Fire Media remains at the forefront of cultural storytelling for years to come.