Justin Lessman will serve as the next executive director of the Minnesota Newspaper Association and Minnesota News Media Institute.
Lessman will succeed current MNA/MNI Executive Director Lisa Hills, who will retire Jan. 31, 2027, after nearly four decades with the MNA, the last 20 as executive director.
Lessman brings a rich history of experience and a deep passion for the news media industry to the position.
He holds a bachelor’s degree in agricultural journalism from South Dakota State University and a master’s degree in mass communications from Kansas State University.
He began his newspaper career as a staff writer and advertising sales representative for his hometown newspaper in Tracy, Minn. He continued his newspaper career in Marshall, Minn., and Powell, Wyo., before teaching journalism at Kansas State University from 2006 to 2007.
He became publisher and general manager at Livewire Printing Co. in Jackson, Minn., in 2008, doubling as editor, advertising sales and marketing manager and chief budget and financial officer. He was part owner from 2015 to 2024.
Lessman has served the MNA and MNI in multiple capacities over the years. He has been a member of all MNA committees; has chaired the advertising/digital media committee, the member services committee and the finance committee; and serves as the current chair of the legislative committee. Moreover, Lessman served on the MNA and MNI Board of Directors from 2015 to 2026, including two terms as MNA/MNI president.
“Justin’s extensive knowledge, his vast experience and his unmatched passion for the industry are all very valuable assets as our organizations move forward,” said MNA President Tara Brandl. “Justin understands the importance of MNA and MNI for our industry and the significance of all members. We are confident Justin will be an outstanding leader for our organizations.”
Lessman said he is humbled, honored and excited to be given the opportunity to help lead two organizations he deeply loves and believes in toward a bright future.
“The work the members of the MNA do is critically important to the health of communities and democracy, and the work the MNA and MNI do is critically important to our members,” Lessman said. “Having spent more than a decade operating a news media business while serving in MNA and MNI leadership, I understand the association from both sides of the relationship. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute my experience, along with my passion for the industry and the organizations that serve it so well, to help strengthen this essential work.”
