GroupM has announced the appointment of Brian Lesser as Chief Executive Officer for business in the US and Canada.

 

Lesser, who was previously global chief executive at programmatic and tech platform Xaxis, will succeed Kelly Clark who is moving into an advisory role.

“GroupM has continuously evolved with clients through major shifts in the media landscape and consumer behavior with data and technology having always been part of the value proposition,” said Lesser. “GroupM has challenged convention and forced dialogue on important issues to help clients be more successful.

“I’m humbled and grateful to have an opportunity to help continue this legacy at this time when complexity is more profound than ever.”

Global chief digital officer Rob Norman will also be taking on the additional role of North America chairman.

The appointments of tech-savvy executives fits with GroupM’s continuing investment in data and technology driven marketing, following recent alliances with Buzzfeed and Networked Insights and the introduction of the industry’s first data management and programmatic audience platforms.

“This is an exciting time for our company,” said Norman. “We have many successes to count and new marketplace challenges to conquer, but above all, we have the strength of our agency brands, our specialist enterprises and our increasing differentiation in the management and application of data that leave us exceptionally well-positioned for the future.

“I’m energized by the road ahead and excited to work with Brian and our colleagues on the executive committee for the next chapter.”