We aspire to bring joy to people’s lives through the work of our talented creators. Since 1970, AMU has honed an uncanny ability to tap into the zeitgeist of popular culture to nurture and share the fresh, new voices that resonate with their generation and remain relevant for years to come. While other companies try to mitigate surprises, we anticipate disruption and embrace change. Our growth and forward momentum come from taking creative risks and finding new ways to share the unique and powerful messages of our creators with the world.
Who We Are
Who We Are
Our story begins with the dynamic partnership of Jim Andrews and John McMeel, two charismatic innovators who challenged convention to give voice to the groundbreaking comic storytellers and cultural commentators of their day.
Jim and John joined forces in 1970 with a bold vision, a progressive business philosophy and a steadfast commitment to the artistic goals of each creator. Their enterprising vision and values continue to serve as the foundation of our corporate culture today.
Global Reach. Midwestern Roots.
In 1970, most creative media companies were headquartered in New 
York City or Los Angeles. Our founders chose Kansas City because they wanted to build a different kind of media company. Here, they discovered a rare combination of Midwestern graciousness, esprit de corps and genuine humility, along with an environment driven by competitive spirit and ambition. Our connection to the Kansas City community remains a critical part of our culture. It informs our values, imbues our personality and underscores our spirit of generosity.
Our corporate headquarters in the historic downtown Boley Building was voted “coolest office in Kansas City” by KC Magazine. AMU has also been named a Kansas City Business Journal Champion of Business three years running and was inducted into their Hall of Champions in 2020.
Community Investment
Our co-founders’ shared commitment to their community infused AMU with a spirit of generosity and philanthropy that continues to this day. In addition to our company’s investment in our community, associates share their time and talents to make a tangible impact through many charitable and civic activities. We’re serious about giving back, and we work to make a difference while sharing in some fun together.
Christmas in October
Children’s Literacy
OUR VALUES
We treat each other with kindness, honesty, dignity and respect. We genuinely care about the well-being and success of our colleagues, creators and business partners.
We bring inclusivity, accountability and passion to our work and embrace a can-do spirit and pride in what we accomplish.
We believe in the life-affirming power of creative expression and the unique talents of our creators. We value originality, authenticity, provocative humor and inspirational voices.
We take pride in our ability to cultivate and thrive in creative environments and bring fresh thinking to our work.
We admire and encourage individual abilities, efforts and ideas.
Yet, we are at our best when we work as a unified team that shares challenges, workload, credit and success.
We motivate and inspire one another. We lead by example. We demonstrate initiative, curiosity and courage. We take smart risks and are accountable for results.
We effect change, embrace new thinking and orchestrate outcomes. We are committed to growth.
Our Leadership
Hugh Andrews
Chairman
Kirsty Melville
CEO, Andrews McMeel Universal
President & Publisher, Andrews McMeel Publishing
Brent Bartram
President, Andrews McMeel Syndication
Les Hinmon
Chief Financial Officer
Nancy Miller
Chief Human Resources Officer
Fred Nelson
Chief Development Officer
