People Moves

GroupM’s Rob Norman becomes new global digital chief

GroupM North America chief executive Rob Norman has been appointed in the newly-created role of global chief digital officer for GroupM.

Maxus global chief executive Kelly Clark will replace Norman as chief executive of GroupM North America and Clark’s role will be filled by GroupM India and South Asia chief executive Vikram Sakhuja.

Norman became chief executive of GroupM North America in January 2010. Before that, he led GroupM Interaction, the unit that oversees digital elements for the media agencies.

According to GroupM global chief executive Dominic Proctor, in his new role Norman’s “responsibilities will be significantly expanded”. He will be tasked with leading the network’s strategy in terms of technology, vendor agreements, operations and new business. He will also have a focus on digital measurement tools and mobile strategy.

The move is part of the WPP media agency network’s strategy to make a number of leadership changes that reflect the development of digital. The changes will come into effect later this year.

“Our activity in digital will define our future success and we are truly fortunate that Rob will step into this crucial role full time,” says Proctor, who took on the role in January. “There is nobody better suited or more experienced than Rob to lead our teams into the future.”

The GroupM network includes agencies Mindshare, MEC, Mediacom and Maxus.

Jenni Baker, London