Viacom and CBS jointly announced that Doretha (DeDe) Lea has been named Executive Vice President, Global Public Policy and Government Relations of ViacomCBS, effective upon closing of the proposed merger between Viacom and CBS. In her role, Lea will oversee all government affairs and public policy work for the combined company domestically and internationally. She will report to Bob Bakish, President and Chief Executive Officer of Viacom, who will serve as President and Chief Executive Officer of ViacomCBS upon close.

Lea has served as Executive Vice President, Global Government Affairs of Viacom since 2013, having previously served as Executive Vice President, Government Relations beginning in 2005. The proposed merger remains subject to regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions. It is expected to close by the 2019 calendar year end.