Ex-APN Outdoor boss James Warburton launches consultancy

Josh McDonnell
By Josh McDonnell | 27 March 2019
 
James Warburton

Former APN Outdoor CEO James Warburton is heading into the world of consultancy, working with private equity firms CVC Limited and Alceon Group. 

The ex-outdoor boss exited the business late last year after only 10 months in the role, following APN Outdoor's acquisition by French rival JCDecaux for $1.2 billion.

Alceon Group is predominantly known in Australia for its heavy investments in retail groups including Noni B and SurfStitch, of which it is the largest shareholder. 

“I have always been drawn to work that is transformative and, in many cases, requires a turnaround with a focus on sales and marketing,” Warburton says.

“It is a new phase of my career and I look forward to working with my new business partners on compelling investment opportunities.”

Warburton, who joined APN Outdoor after a four-year stint as CEO of V8 Supercars, also revealed he was returning to the world of auto racing, taking on a board role with the Australian Racing Group (ARG).

During his time with V8 Supercars, Warburton secured the current $241 million six-year deal with Foxtel, Fox Sports and Ten Network for all media rights, including digital.

ARG executive chairman John McMellan says the business, which currently promotes the new TCR Australia and S5000 racing series, will be looking to drive its new market strategies, adding that Warburton's experience will ensure its commercial success.

“His appointment endorses the future plans for the business and James will be integral in assisting and guiding the delivery of those plans over the coming years," McMellan says.

Warburton says he is excited to join the ARG business, stating it brings together his passion for motorsport, media, events and business.

“The TCR Australia Series, in particular, is dynamic as well as being market and manufacturer relevant," he says.

“It is targeted to a growing demographic and features cars people are buying and driving on a global basis. The board of ARG is a very experienced and capable team and I look forward to working with them and assisting the business with executing its plans for growth and other commercial matters.”

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