Following the recent news of layoffs at Wizards of the Coast, another significant figure, Dungeons & Dragons Vice President Jess Lanzillo, has announced her departure. The news comes just a day after the community learned of Todd Kenreck’s exit, signalling a period of notable change for the company.
Lanzillo confirmed her exit in a witty and heartfelt post on LinkedIn, beginning with a memorable line:
After eight years at Wizards of the Coast, I have made the totally reasonable decision to leave a job where I got paid to argue about whether fictional lizard people can have tails. (Of course they can.)
A highly visible year for D&D
Over the last year, Lanzillo has become an increasingly public face for Dungeons & Dragons, often stepping forward to handle key communications. It was Lanzillo who addressed the press regarding the performance of the 2024 Player’s Handbook, stating:
We couldn’t be more pleased with the resounding critical and fan acclaim and record-breaking launch of the 2024 Player’s Handbook, and we have our loyal fans to thank for it.
She was also the voice for brand partnerships, such as the deal with New Holland Brewing for their “Dragon Milk” collaboration, noting, “Together, we’re building on what makes D&D so cool – bringing people together through the shared experience of adventure.”
Her key role in steering D&D’s 50th-anniversary messaging was highlighted in a recent AdWeek interview, where she discussed the brand’s broad cultural reach.
What’s next?
Before her time as D&D’s VP, Lanzillo was the VP Creative for Magic: The Gathering and brought a wealth of experience from the world of marketing and advertising.
Her departure raises questions about the future of D&D’s public relations and brand strategy. As Wizards of the Coast navigates a pivotal period with the launch of new core rulebooks and its ongoing 50th-anniversary celebration, who will now be the public voice for the world’s most popular tabletop RPG? It marks another significant shift for the company’s leadership, leaving the community watching closely to see what comes next.
