Dev Pragad, CEO and co-owner of Newsweek, is a pivotal figure in the modern media landscape. Since taking the helm in 2018, he has not only revived the historic publication but has also redefined how legacy news organizations can adapt, survive, and thrive in the digital age.
Reviving a Legacy Brand
When Pragad took over Newsweek, it was a shadow of its former self. Once one of America’s most influential weekly magazines, it was struggling with financial instability and waning influence. Pragad’s entry marked a dramatic shift in direction—he co-founded Newsweek Publishing LLC and set out to overhaul the brand from the inside out.
At the heart of this transformation was his clear understanding: legacy media couldn’t compete in the 21st century without embracing technology and changing how news was produced, distributed, and consumed.
A Digital-First Strategy
Pragad led a sweeping digital transformation at Newsweek. He prioritized technological innovation and data-driven strategies to rebuild audience trust and grow engagement. His leadership resulted in the launch of a digital-first newsroom, emphasizing speed, credibility, and relevance.
Strategic partnerships with companies like Google Cloud enabled Newsweek to harness AI and machine learning tools for content recommendation and audience personalization. These changes not only modernized the user experience but significantly increased traffic and engagement across platforms.
Under his direction, Newsweek grew to reach more than 100 million readers monthly—its largest audience in nearly a century.
Redefining Journalistic Impact
Pragad’s vision for Newsweek extended beyond simply reaching more readers. He reshaped the publication’s editorial mission, focusing on credibility, global relevance, and cultural intelligence. He launched new verticals, strengthened international reporting, and developed multimedia formats to expand the brand’s influence.
Importantly, Pragad helped reintroduce Newsweek as a platform for meaningful dialogue. From exclusive interviews with world leaders to launching Newsweek Rankings (covering industries from health care to automotive innovation), he positioned the outlet as a credible and competitive voice in global affairs.
A Blueprint for Media Turnarounds
Under Pragad’s leadership, Newsweek became profitable, reporting nearly $100 million in revenue, and now has its highest valuation in its history. These numbers are not just a sign of a successful business strategy; they’re evidence that legacy journalism can be sustainable in the digital economy.
His transformation of Newsweek has been studied at Harvard Business School and recognized by industry leaders as a rare and exemplary success in media turnaround.
Looking Ahead
Pragad’s impact on the news industry is profound. He demonstrated that even one of the most challenged legacy brands could be reimagined through innovation, courage, and a deep respect for journalistic integrity.
More than just a CEO, Dev Pragad has become a case study in how to save the news—not by abandoning tradition, but by retooling it for a world in constant change.