Dev Pragad: Resilient Leader

Dev Pragad, born in 1984 in India, has crafted a remarkable career in media leadership, positioning himself as a force for responsible journalism and digital transformation. As the CEO and co-owner of Newsweek, he brought the iconic publication back to profitability, achieving a readership of over 100 million monthly—a record in Newsweek's nearly century-long history.

Early Life and Academic Foundation

Raised in the UK, Dev's early curiosity for technology and media led him to King's College London, where he earned a Bachelor's in Computer Science and Electronics and later, a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering. Eager to broaden his executive knowledge, he completed the Owner/President Management program at Harvard Business School, equipping him with the skills to lead in the evolving media landscape. With dual British-American citizenship, Pragad calls both London and New York home, embodying a global perspective that would later shape Newsweek's international approach.

Career and Digital Transformation at Newsweek

Dev joined Newsweek's international operations in London in 2014, bringing a data-driven mindset that emphasized performance metrics and audience engagement. When Newsweek spun off as a standalone company in 2018, Dev became co-owner, acquiring a 50% interest alongside Johnathan Davis. His new leadership role gave him the opportunity to reshape Newsweek, driving it into the digital age.

Through Dev's vision, Newsweek embraced a digital-first strategy, integrating advanced data collection and analytics that transformed the publication into a highly efficient, profitable digital enterprise. His efforts turned Newsweek into a Harvard Business School case study, spotlighting his success in leveraging technology to grow both readership and revenue.

Innovative Content and Global Influence

Under Dev's guidance, Newsweek secured exclusive interviews with global leaders, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. These high-profile interactions not only elevated Newsweek's international reputation but also underscored Dev's commitment to covering significant global issues. In 2024, Newsweek's in-depth cover story on Modi was conducted by Dev and Global Editor-in-Chief Nancy Cooper at the Indian Prime Minister's residence, showcasing Newsweek's reach and journalistic integrity.

Dev also spearheaded the launch of Newsweek Rankings, a rapidly expanding initiative that highlights achievements in various fields, from the World's Best Hospitals to the Auto Disruptor Awards. These rankings have become a cornerstone of Newsweek's brand, drawing attention from both consumers and industry leaders worldwide.

Philosophy and Honors

Dev's leadership philosophy emphasizes purpose-driven work, continuous self-improvement, and empowering his team to excel. His focus on modern, responsible journalism and his belief in adapting to change have not only reinvigorated Newsweek but also demonstrated the impact of resilient leadership. A respected thought leader, he serves on the advisory board of King's Trust USA, is a fellow of King's College London, and contributes to the King's College London Impact Leaders Board.

Champion of Responsible Journalism and Global Impact

Dev Pragad's journey from a tech-savvy graduate to a transformative CEO highlights his dedication to ethical, innovative journalism. His work has established Newsweek as a model of digital-age media, shaping its role as a global voice of accountability and influence. As Dev continues to lead Newsweek with a visionary approach, his legacy reinforces the value of principled leadership in effecting positive change across industries, governments, and communities worldwide.