Welcome to the Board of Directors, Ben Press

The World Affairs Council is proud to welcome Ben Press, a senior business development, marketing, and strategic communications executive, to its Board of Directors. As the founder of PressPlay Media Advisors, Ben brings over 30 years of experience navigating the intersection of media, culture, and business. His impressive career includes leading business development for the Nike-acquired startup TraceMe, serving as Chief Development Officer for digital network JoySauce, and working in private equity at Solyco Capital. Furthermore, Ben spent decades as a premier Hollywood talent agent and partner at Primary Wave Entertainment and Fortitude, shaping the careers of icons like Don Cheadle and Tyra Banks.

Ben’s dedication to global engagement was ignited at Middlebury College, where he studied and lived in Switzerland and Italy. This early academic immersion sparked a lifelong passion for international travel and cultural exploration, taking him to countries like Colombia, Thailand, and Israel. Ben deeply believes that societies grow stronger and more compassionate when they learn from other cultures, and that Cincinnati’s vitality is directly tied to its intentional connection to the global community.

To his role on the board, Ben brings a powerful, relationship-driven approach, combining entrepreneurial drive with deep expertise in strategic marketing and storytelling. His proven ability to structure high-profile partnerships and craft compelling narratives will be instrumental in amplifying the Council’s regional voice, deepening community engagement, and attracting new members and supporters to advance its vital mission.