The advertising division of Samsung Electronics Samsung Ads ANZ has appointed Richard Wheeler head of agency development and Blair Hamilford as head of business development.
Alex Spurzem, general manager Samsung Ads ANZ, said: “I am pleased to welcome both Richard and Blair, their combined experience and expertise across sales, data and screens will help drive further value for our clients and partners."
Wheeler will be the driving force in building strategic relationships for Samsung Ads with agencies and trading desks to help them navigate the evolving CTV landscape. He will be tasked with supercharging the growth of the agency business and Samsung TV Plus, the leading TV manufacturers’* free ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) and video-on-demand service.
Prior Wheeler led new business for the Adobe Advertising business, was the general manager at AMNET, and held various senior positions at MediaCom Australia and Xaxis where he was responsible for helping advertisers leverage data and technology to enhance campaign performance.
Wheeler said: “The TV landscape is changing faster than ever, and with it, the way we need to both understand and deliver to fragmenting audiences.
"It’s an exciting time to join the growing team as the CTV industry in Australia and New Zealand is rapidly expanding, and constantly offering new opportunities for advertisers.”
Blair Hamilford also joins as head of business development for Samsung Ads. In the newly created role, Blair’s initial focus will be to explore the connection between retailers, advertisers and network solutions and work closely with partners to achieve their business goals through Samsung Ads products and solutions.
Before joining Samsung Ads, Blair worked with JOLT, a 100% DOOH network for electric chargers for cars in Australia. He previously launched Australia’s first retail large format digital network from scratch at Westfield as well as running oOh!media Retail division where he was responsible for scaling the network, creating sales, driving business development and leading commercial and operational functions.
Blair said: “I’m excited to come on-board and help expand the Samsung Ads local offering and connect customers and brands alike. I’m thrilled to cement Samsung Ads as a great partner to drive commercial outcomes.”
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