WPP’s programmatic trading unit Xaxis has promoted its Americas chief Brian Gleason to its top global role, to replace GroupM-bound Brian Lesser.

It was revealed earlier today that Lesser is leaving his post at Xaxis to become GroupM chief executive for the US and Canada.

Xaxis has now confirmed that Gleason, its North America CEO for the past two years, will take on the role of global chief executive officer.

In his new position, Gleason will be responsible for overall company strategy, growth and client development operations.

“[Gleason] has been exemplary in managing Xaxis in the largest and most competitive market in the world and we are pleased to welcome his leadership as global CEO of Xaxis,” said Colin Barlow, global chief operating officer for GroupM.

“His understanding of the issues that are important to advertisers and publishers along with the central role he has played in the development and ongoing refinement of the programmatic media landscape makes him an ideal choice for the role.”

Before joining Xaxis in 2013, Gleason operated as group chief revenue officer at IDG TechNetwork and IDG Consumer & SMB.