We just got word from multiple well-connected sources that Entertainment Weekly has hired Scott Donaton away from Ad Age to become their new publisher.

Donaton is currently Ad Age's publisher and first started with the mag way, way back in 1989. Apart from stints at American Business Media and TV Guide, he spent the bulk of his career over at Ad Age.

Donaton will be replacing the recently departed David Morris.

Memo after the jump.

To: Time Inc. Staff

From: Stephanie George

Re: Staff Announcement

On the recommendation of Time Inc. Entertainment Group President Paul Caine, I am pleased to announce that Scott Donaton has been named Publisher of Entertainment Weekly, effective December 10.

Many of you know Scott as the Publisher of Advertising Age, where he worked for nearly two decades, first on the editorial side, where he rose to Editor. Most recently as Publisher, Scott has focused on expanding the Ad Age brand in print, online, in video and through marquee conferences.

Prior to being named Publisher in February 2007, Scott served as Ad Age’s Associate Publisher and Editorial Director, with primary responsibility for such high-growth areas as events and conferences, digital new-product development, and global licensing. Scott also founded Advertising Age’s Madison & Vine initiative, which includes a popular conference and subscription-based Web site.

Recognized as an authority in media, Scott has received many industry accolades, including being inducted into the American Advertising Federation’s Advertising Hall of Achievement.

Scott’s perspective on the relationship between entertainment and business makes him uniquely qualified to lead the Entertainment Weekly brand. He shares EW’s signature wit and passion for all things movies, music and television. Paul and I are confident that Scott will help EW build on its position as America's leading consumer magazine of entertainment and popular culture. As part of the Time Inc. Entertainment Group, EW will benefit from a joint strategy with PEOPLE, People en Español and StyleWatch.

Please join me in congratulating Scott and welcoming him to Time Inc.

S.G.