Lee Enterprises has appointed Gregory Hoffmann to its Board of Directors, effective immediately. The media company, which trades on the NASDAQ under the symbol LEE, announced the decision on September 30, 2026, in a press release issued from its headquarters in Davenport, Iowa.
Hoffmann will serve on the Board until the company's 2028 annual meeting of stockholders. As part of his appointment, he has been assigned to the Board's Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. The addition aims to bring a specific perspective to the boardroom, with executives noting his background in evaluating opportunities and deploying capital across various business portfolios.
David Hoffmann, who serves as chairman of the Lee Enterprises Board, described the new director as a proven investor and business leader. He stated that Hoffmann's disciplined approach to growth and strong financial background will complement the existing capabilities of the Board. According to David Hoffmann, these qualities will support Lee as it works to strengthen its operating platform and create sustainable value for shareholders.
Nathan Bekke, President and Chief Executive Officer of Lee Enterprises, also commented on the appointment. He highlighted Hoffmann's combination of financial expertise and strategic judgment, noting his hands-on experience in supporting growth across a wide range of businesses. Bekke said Hoffmann's perspective will be an important addition as the company continues to strengthen its financial foundation, advance its digital transformation, and invest in the products and journalism that serve its communities.
Prior to joining the Lee Enterprises Board, Hoffmann has held senior roles within the Hoffmann Family of Companies. He currently serves as Co-Chief Executive Officer of that entity, where he drives strategic growth through acquisitions and development. In this role, he supports operational needs for the family's diverse businesses and leads the company's real estate portfolio. Hoffmann began his career at Osprey Capital, LLC, one of the family's investment vehicles, where he played a key role in nearly doubling the firm's size. Working with senior leadership across various portfolio companies, he has led acquisitions totaling several billion dollars.
Beyond his corporate roles, Hoffmann serves as an Alternate Governor for the Pittsburgh Penguins of the National Hockey League. In his own remarks regarding the appointment, he acknowledged Lee's vital role in the communities it serves. He expressed a desire to work with fellow directors and leadership to support disciplined execution and thoughtful investment in the company's continued transformation and long-term growth.
Lee Enterprises operates as a leading provider of local news and information, maintaining a major subscription and advertising platform. The company owns and manages 193 brands across 28 states. Its markets include St. Louis, Missouri; Buffalo, New York; Omaha, Nebraska; Richmond, Virginia; Lincoln, Nebraska; Madison, Wisconsin; and Davenport, Iowa.