Paul E. Butler joins New America as President and Chief Transformation Officer

Washington, D.C.—New America is pleased to announce that Paul E. Butler has joined New America as its president and first-ever chief transformation officer. Butler is an expert in business development, strategy and operations, with more than 20 years of experience in the media, entertainment and consulting industries. Most recently, Butler was the chief operating officer of sparks & honey, a technology-based cultural consultancy that delivers innovative growth and transformation strategy for global organizations.

Butler steps into the role of president that was previously held by Tyra A. Mariani. As chief transformation officer, Butler, in partnership with New America CEO Anne-Marie Slaughter, will lead New America’s efforts to build an organization and society centered on racial equity and to integrate and expand the impact of all of New America’s work. He will strengthen New America’s organizational processes and infrastructure to support continued growth and fulfillment of its mission and long-term vision.

“I’m honored to bring my diverse background and experience to this new role as New America’s first chief transformation officer,” Butler said.  “Especially now, at this time in our history, I’m looking forward to collaborating with Anne-Marie, the board of directors, and the incredible team of experts who are actively committed to reinvigorating this country’s civic life, and realizing our representative democracy.”

“I am delighted that Paul has joined us and am very much looking forward to working together,” Slaughter said. “He has deep experience working with founders and translating visions into reality. I am already impressed with his keen strategic sense and his plans to operationalize New America’s vision for transformation. He will be a great partner as we work to renew the promise of America at a time of both crisis and change.” 

Butler officially joined New America on February 1, 2021. Prior to his position as COO of sparks & honey, Butler was the general manager of Aspire, a television network launched  by Earvin “Magic” Johnson dedicated to elevating positive images of the next generation of African-Americans. Butler has spent more than 20 years serving on the board of directors of The Brotherhood Sister Sol, a Black-led social justice organization that educates young people, organizes to advance equity, and trains educators across the country. Butler holds a juris doctor from Harvard Law School and a bachelor of arts in African-American studies & political science from the University of Rochester.

About New America: We are dedicated to renewing the promise of America by continuing the quest to realize our nation’s highest ideals, honestly confronting the challenges caused by rapid technological and social change and seizing the opportunities those changes create.