Behind the Velvet Rope: Brian O’Connor on Managing PR for Hollywood’s Biggest Nights
PR alumnus’ career in entertainment PR is now a roadmap for students eyeing the industry
By: Allisa Sigmon
MSU PR alumnus, Brian O’Connor once stood behind the velvet ropes of the Golden Globe Awards, directing press coverage as stars swept across the red carpet. He was calm at the storm’s center, navigating the high-pressure environment of one of Hollywood’s most prestigious events. Today, he brings that same focus and expertise to the classroom as an ADPR professor of practice.
O’Connor began his career as an intern for Hilton Hotels. He says he planned to pursue a career in hospitality but became drawn to marketing and public relations. This shift in interest led to two internships, including one at the Beverly Hilton. He didn’t know it then, but that experience would shape his future career.
After completing his internships, O’Connor accepted a marketing coordinator position with Hilton, launching his professional career. He quickly rose to senior manager before stepping away to pursue entrepreneurial ventures and consulting in brand strategy, public relations and marketing communications.
Nearly a decade later, he returned to the Beverly Hilton as its public relations director. The role marked a full-circle moment, bringing him back to where his journey began.
The Golden Globe Awards, an annual ceremony honoring achievements in film and television, have been held at the Beverly Hilton since 1961. The event takes place every January, but the planning process begins months in advance. O’Connor recalls walking into his first meeting overwhelmed with eagerness.
“It was very exciting. My advantage was that I knew the hotel. I knew all of the people because I had interned there,” O’Connor said.
His familiarity with the Beverly Hilton proved invaluable as he managed logistics for the Golden Globes. He coordinated with the Hollywood Foreign Press, NBC and entertainment outlets to ensure smooth execution. He also managed the logistics for sets built inside the hotel, where outlets like “The Today Show,” “Access Hollywood” and “Entertainment Tonight” filmed their next-day content. O’Connor’s ability to handle the complex details of the event prepared him to teach his students the importance of real-world experience in event planning.
O’Connor says he believes industry exposure is just as valuable as classroom instruction. He teaches ADV 402-301: Event Production for Public Relations, where his students don’t just study entertainment — they connect with the people shaping it. His advice for those looking to break into the field: learn directly from those doing the work.
“I would encourage students who haven’t taken my class yet to take it because most of my class sessions are delivered by me inviting a guest expert into the class to share about their experience,” O’Connor said.
O’Connor also leads the Los Angeles Industry Immersion trip, a weeklong experience that gives students a behind-the-scenes look at the entertainment industry. The program offers exclusive access to major companies, alumni working in Hollywood, and valuable networking opportunities to help students explore careers and make lasting industry connections.
For more information or to apply, visit the Los Angeles Industry Immersion program.