Best Version Media is thrilled to announce some exciting changes to our executive leadership team as we continue to grow and support our incredible network of Publishers! Chris Laurence has officially joined the BVM family as our new Chief Executive Officer, while Kevin O’Brien is transitioning into the role of Chief Revenue Officer.
This transition comes at an incredible time for our business. As BVM has expanded to serve more than 1,300 communities across the US and Canada, the need to lead the overall company’s strategic vision while simultaneously guiding our massive sales field has grown. This new structure gives both of these critical areas the dedicated, passionate leadership they deserve.
In his new role as Chief Revenue Officer, O’Brien will be returning to his roots—focusing entirely on what he loves most: leading the BVM sales field, working directly with our sales leaders, and helping our independent Publishers thrive.
When asked about the transition, O’Brien shared his excitement for the future of the field.
“Our growth has brought us to a point where leading the overall company and leading our sales field each deserve a dedicated focus,” said O’Brien. “This transition allows me to concentrate on working with our sales leaders and Publishers, strengthening the field, and helping more local businesses connect with their communities. I’m excited to partner with Chris as we build on BVM’s momentum.”
Stepping into the role of Chief Executive Officer, Laurence brings experience as CEO, CFO, and COO of public, private, and private equity-backed companies, where he has led growth, operational improvement, and technology transformation. Before moving into operating roles, he was a general partner at Brentwood Associates, a Los Angeles-based private equity firm.
Laurence is already recognizing the unique culture and community-driven mission that makes BVM so special.
“BVM has built a powerful combination of community storytelling, local relationships, and marketing solutions for small businesses,” said Laurence. “I look forward to working with Kevin and the entire team to build on that foundation, strengthen how we operate, and support the success of our Publishers and clients.”
Together, Laurence and O’Brien will work hand-in-hand to advance BVM’s print and digital offerings. Laurence will focus on BVM’s overall strategy and operations, ensuring we are executing at the highest level, while O’Brien will focus on Publisher growth and field leadership.
As we expand our team and welcome Laurence to the BVM family, our mission remains exactly the same. We are committed to bringing people together across the US and Canada, uniting communities, and supporting local businesses. We look forward to seeing the incredible impact Laurence and O’Brien will make together as we head into the future!
