Variety – The Children’s Charity of Southern California is thrilled to announce Wanda Gierhart Fearing as the honoree for this year’s Annual Heart of Show Business Luncheon. The event will take place on December 12, 2024, at the Skirball Cultural Center celebrating Wanda’s outstanding contributions to the entertainment industry and her commitment to community engagement.

As the Executive Vice President and Global Chief Marketing and Content Officer for Cinemark, one of Variety’s biggest and most loved supporters, as well as one of the largest and most influential theatrical exhibition companies in the world, Wanda leads her team in celebrating the shared, immersive experiences that movie theaters provide. She bridges the content and multi-faceted customer engagement sides of the business, placing moviegoers at the center of all outreach, keenly aware of the memorable and emotional place that movie theaters have in culture. Under her strategic leadership, the Cinemark marketing department has undergone a comprehensive transformation, with sophisticated, data-driven strategies that have propelled the company’s digital and e-commerce capabilities, best-in-industry loyalty program, and driven an impactful brand refresh across both physical and digital spaces. Wanda has seamlessly led the implementation of these changes across the entire organization, working with multiple departments to put movie lovers at the center of all initiatives.

With more than 25 years of experience in high-profile marketing, merchandising and executive leadership roles with brands like Neiman Marcus Group, Travel Smith, L Brands and more, Wanda’s strategic vision and customer-driven motivation deliver meaningful results, while her sharp business acumen drives forward company objectives and counsels company leadership and boards. Her extensive background in retail and ecommerce has solidified her reputation as a thought leader in customer engagement strategies, earning her multiple accolades including “Top 100 Marketing Innovator” and “Top Woman in Global Cinema.”

Wanda is dedicated to empowering her team by fostering an environment of curiosity and continuous learning. She also encourages collaboration and ensures that mentorship remains a cornerstone of her department. Her deep passion for local communities and organizations is evident in her work alongside both internal and external partners as she consistently strives to uplift those around her. Her commitment to excellence and community aligns seamlessly with the mission of Variety – The Children’s Charity, which supports underprivileged and disadvantaged children in Southern California through grants and programs.

“Wanda’s remarkable achievements in the marketing sector and her dedication to mentorship and community service make her a perfect honoree for this year’s luncheon,” said Steve Bunnell – President of the Board of Directors, Variety of Southern California. “We look forward to celebrating her impact on the industry and the lives of children in our community.”

“Wanda’s dedication to philanthropy and community involvement, her passion for creating exceptional customer experiences, and the significant impact she has in advancing our company and industry make her truly deserving of this recognition,” said Sean Gamble, Cinemark President & CEO. “Always keeping people and movie lovers at the forefront of her efforts, she has radically transformed how we engage our guests at Cinemark and helped to meaningfully strengthen the cinematic entertainment they enjoy.”

The Heart of Show Business Luncheon is an annual event that recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the entertainment industry while exemplifying the spirit of philanthropy.

For more information about the event and to secure tickets, please visit www.varietysocal.org/events

About Variety – the Children’s Charity of Southern California
Founded in 1941, Variety the Children’s Charity of Southern California is dedicated to inspiring hope, enriching lives and building a better future for the children of Southern California. Variety supports children in the areas of Health Care, Education and Mobility, and is also a major supporter of the Variety Boys and Girls Club of Boyle Heights.