TIME has officially brought on Michael Mraz as its new Senior Vice President, Head of Product and Platform AI, marking a significant step in the publication’s digital and artificial intelligence ambitions.
In a staff note, TIME’s COO Mark Howard revealed that Mraz will take the reins of TIME.com’s product strategy, with a sharp focus on embedding AI into everything—from newsroom workflows to audience engagement. This move comes as TIME doubles down on its partnership with Scale AI, aiming to roll out more innovative, high-impact digital experiences.
Key Takeaways:
- Michael Mraz will lead TIME.com’s product development and AI integration.
- Brings a unique mix of media leadership and AI startup experience.
- Will collaborate closely on enterprise-wide AI strategy.
Mraz’s career blends deep editorial expertise with AI-driven product innovation. He co-founded Smashing, a venture-backed AI curation platform, and has held high-profile product and partnership roles at Hearst and Condé Nast.
At Hearst, he spearheaded strategic partnerships that brought fresh revenue streams via collaborations with major tech and social platforms. His leadership also shaped the digital presence of renowned brands such as Esquire, Town & Country, and Runner’s World.
Earlier at Condé Nast, he served as Digital Director for Architectural Digest and Managing Editor for Men’s Vogue, sharpening his skills at the intersection of content and technology.
Now, at TIME, Mraz will partner with key leaders like Sam Jacobs, Annabel Gutterman, and Sharon (who is driving the company-wide AI strategy) to accelerate TIME’s transformation. The goal? A future-forward, AI-enhanced reader experience that goes beyond traditional news delivery.
Howard emphasized Mraz’s “vision and expertise across product, editorial, and technology” as crucial for shaping the next chapter of the industry giant’s evolution.
Why it matters:
This appointment signals that TIME is not just adopting AI—it’s embedding it into its DNA, potentially setting a new standard for how legacy media adapts in the AI era.