Vermont Business Magazine VermontBiz owners Timothy McQuiston and John Boutin have announced a significant leadership change at VermontBiz, appointing long-time employee Katie Kittell as its first female publisher.
Kittell joined VermontBiz in 2011 as production manager and was soon promoted to Art Director. Kittell has been the creative force behind the publication’s consistent visual presentation. She has designed and produced every monthly issue, ensuring quality and cohesion month after month.
Beyond the regular magazine, her design responsibilities have extended to VermontBiz’s annual publications, including the Vermont Business Directory, The Book of Lists, The Giving Guide, and Profiles in Business.
Her design expertise was especially showcased during VermontBiz’s 50th anniversary celebration, when she was entrusted with creating a new logo and refreshed visual identity for the publication.
Kittell has been instrumental in managing the publication’s digital presence, both vermontbiz.com and vermontbizevents.com, curating daily news content for the organization’s enews and ensuring that featured content is published online.
In addition to her design and digital media work, Kittell has immersed herself in the several events VermontBiz hosts throughout the year — including Best Places to Work in Vermont and Rising Stars, not merely as a participant but as an emcee.
Kittell’s contributions to Vermont’s business community were recognized when she was named to the Rising Star Class of 2016. This honor, awarded by VermontBiz, identifies young professionals under 40 years old who demonstrate exceptional leadership, innovation and impact in their fields.
Effective Nov. 6, Kittell will assume the publisher role, succeeding John Boutin, who will transition to company president. Boutin has expressed strong confidence in the choice, emphasizing that Kittell is “a natural fit for the position. He highlighted her status as a native Vermonter and her comprehensive background spanning media, marketing and publishing — credentials that position her well to understand and serve the publication’s audience.
“I have great confidence in Katie’s knowledge of our publications and of our many components, including the print and online editions, digital offerings and events," Boutin said. “In my new role as president of our parent company, Boutin McQuiston Inc., I will be focused more on expanding our company’s offerings. I look forward to staying connected with Vermont's great business community. Rest assured, Katie will do a fabulous job as she continues our tradition of providing unmatched news, information and engagement. “
“I’m very excited about tackling the new responsibilities and challenges that come with this new title," Kittell said. “I believe I can contribute fresh ideas and a new perspective to VermontBiz as we move forward”.
Kittell’s appointment represents a continuation of VermontBiz’s evolution, combining knowledge — gained through her 13-year tenure — with energy and a new perspective. As the first woman to serve as publisher of the magazine, Kittell hopes to inspire other women in Vermont’s business and media communities to pursue front-office roles.
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