During more than 17 years at The Community, veteran producer Laurie Malaga has steered plenty of projects that prove her top-notch production skills. In 2021 alone, she led her team on major campaigns for Oreo, Samsung, Constellation, Volkswagen and Amazon. One of the most challenging was Samsung’s global push for the Tokyo Olympic Games in the midst of COVID-imposed hurdles. Malaga and team juggled uncertainties around timing, athletes and audience, International Olympic Committee rules and a grueling shooting schedule across eight locations in two countries. 

But Malaga's skills as a leader cemented her as Agency Head of Production of the Year. Colleagues across The Community and the production world describe her as the calming force in the midst of myriad production storms; a cool-headed negotiator and consummate communicator with her own team, partners and clients as well as a passionate supporter of talent. Our jury members, including other heads of production, were in “awe” of her level of commitment and leadership. “She’s a powerhouse,” noted Deutsch LA EVP-Head of Production Diego De La Maza. “When you look at not only how long she’s been at the agency and the full range of work, but also how she’s a real mentor and nurturing person, it’s impressive.”

And, appropriate to these awards, Malaga is willing to fight for creative ideas. “She cares,” said The Community Co-Founder and Co-Chief Creative Officer Joaquin Molla. “She knows how to fix stuff before it’s too late. She has a great instinct when it comes to finding the right production company and director for the job. If she says it’s gonna work, I know it’s gonna work. I couldn’t ask for more in a partner at this level. As a creative, she gives me the confidence to dream bigger.”