AJC names Travis Lyles director of social media

Lyles will direct the AJC's social media strategy and how its essential and engaging journalism reaches audiences across platforms.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 2:50pm

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The Atlanta Journal-Constitution announced that Travis Lyles is joining its newsroom as director of social media. In this role, Lyles will oversee the AJC's social media strategy and how its journalism is shared with audiences across various digital platforms. Lyles previously spent eight years at The Washington Post, where he rose to become the deputy director of social media, leading the newsroom's Instagram team and developing new visual and breaking news formats that became industry standards.

Why it matters

As news organizations continue to evolve their digital strategies, the role of social media director has become increasingly important in connecting with younger and more diverse audiences. Lyles' experience at The Washington Post, where he helped transform the newsroom's social media presence, positions him well to lead the AJC's efforts to expand its digital reach and engagement.

The details

In his new role at the AJC, Lyles will be responsible for directing the organization's social media strategy and ensuring its essential and engaging journalism reaches audiences across platforms. During his time at The Washington Post, Lyles founded and led the newsroom's dedicated Instagram team, helping to make the platform a core part of the organization's digital presence. He also developed new visual and breaking news formats that became industry standards and helped the Post's social team earn seven Webby Awards.

  • Lyles is joining the AJC as director of social media effective immediately.
  • At The Washington Post, Lyles rose from social media editor to become the deputy director of social media, making him the youngest person ever to hold a senior editor title at the organization.

The players

Travis Lyles

A native of Newport News, Virginia, Lyles is the new director of social media at the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. He previously spent eight years at The Washington Post, where he rose to become the deputy director of social media.

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

A 157-year-old news organization that serves as the South's source for culture, community and news for curious minds. The AJC is committed to accuracy, accountability, and innovation as it redefines what a local news brand can be.

The Washington Post

A leading national news organization where Lyles previously worked, rising from social media editor to become the deputy director of social media, the youngest person to hold a senior editor title at the Post.

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What they’re saying

“Travis Lyles' work has earned recognition across the journalism industry, including being named to the 2023 Forbes 30 Under 30 list for media.”

— Hugo Rojo, Head of Communications, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

The takeaway

The AJC's hiring of Travis Lyles as director of social media reflects the growing importance of social media strategy and engagement in the news industry. Lyles' experience at The Washington Post, where he helped transform the organization's social media presence, positions him well to lead the AJC's efforts to expand its digital reach and connect with younger, more diverse audiences.