Episode 12. Jack Guthrie – Founder, Guthrie-Mayes Public Relations
Making a difference is what drives Jack Guthrie. He began his career with Phillip Morris in public relations and became director of communications in their New York City office.
Jack returned home to Louisville and served as president of the Kentucky Derby Festival from 1971–1977. Under his leadership, the Kentucky Derby Festival grew ten-fold, becoming the nation’s largest civic celebration.
Jack graduated from the University of Kentucky in 1963 and has since held various leadership positions. He was president of the UK Alumni Association, president of the UK School of Journalism Alumni Association, and in 1996 served on the UK Board of Trustees.
He founded Guthrie/Mayes Public Relations in 1977, one of the largest independent public relations firms in Kentucky, and currently serves as chairman. Jack was named Man of the Year by the Louisville Advertising Club in 1995 and has received many other professional and personal awards over the years.