Teni Melidonian is exiting her full-time role as the chief Oscars officer for the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences [1].

This leadership change signals a broader organizational shake-up as the Academy pivots its broadcasting strategy to reach new audiences. The transition occurs as the organization prepares for a fundamental shift in how the Oscars are delivered to the public.

AMPAS CEO Bill Kramer said the departure in an email to staff on Monday [2]. The exit is tied to a restructuring effort designed to facilitate major changes coming to the ceremony, most notably the transition to a digital platform [1].

According to Kramer, the move is part of the preparation for the Oscars ceremony to move to YouTube in 2029 [2]. The shift to a digital-first approach follows years of declining viewership for the traditional broadcast [3].

Kramer said, "As the Oscars ceremony prepares for its move to YouTube in 2029, chief Oscars officer Teni Melidonian is stepping down" [2]. The Academy has not yet named a successor for the role, but the move is intended to align the organization's leadership with its new digital vision.

The Academy's decision to migrate to YouTube reflects a broader trend of legacy media properties seeking stability through streaming, and user-generated content platforms. By moving the most prestigious awards show in film to a digital giant, the organization hopes to reverse the trend of shrinking audiences and modernize the event's global reach.

“Teni Melidonian is exiting her full-time role as the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences' chief Oscars officer”

The departure of a veteran executive like Melidonian suggests that the Academy is not merely changing its broadcast partner, but is restructuring its internal operations to fit a digital-first business model. Moving to YouTube in 2029 indicates a strategic bet that the future of prestige awards lies in accessibility and internet-native distribution rather than traditional linear television.