ZenithOptimedia’s Aaron Michie departs to head Australian operation of Guardian Labs
Michie: Moves from ZenithOptimedia to head up Guardian Labs locally
Chief innovation officer of ZenithOptimedia Aaron Michie is to depart announcing he will move over to the Guardian Australia to head its branded content division, Guardian Labs.
Michie will be responsible for growing its branded content revenues and content delivery in Australia and will report directly to Guardian Australia’s managing director Ian McClelland.
Ian McClelland, managing director, Guardian Australia, said in a statement: “Aaron is an excellent hire for us and we are excited to have him on-board. He is an industry leader and brings extensive agency experience across multiple disciplines, which will be vital as we continue to develop market-leading solutions for our clients.”
Aaron Michie said: “I’ve long admired The Guardian and am incredibly proud to join such a talented team. I’m really looking forward to working with everyone on growing the business and making Guardian Labs a market leader in innovative and effective brand partnerships.”
Globally, Guardian Labs now has more than 130 staff creating native advertising, built-on content, tech and data.
Michie’s departure is the latest senior departure to go from ZenithOptimedia as new CEO Matt James shakes up the management team.
Last last year ZO announced the departures of COO of Andrew Sherman and head of digital, Ros Allison.
No replacement has yet been named at ZO.
Miranda Ward worked for Mumbrella from 2013 to 2017, eventually becoming deputy editor. Miranda joined Mumbrella in September 2013 from Sky News.
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Great move Cookie. Big win for The Guardian.
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Congratulations Aaron and The Guardian team – looking forward to seeing what’s next.
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HI Arron what an inspired move, and The Guardian what a great catch. Congrats all.
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Time to dust off that brown corduroy suit again
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Great hire!
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The Guardian + Aaron = No brainer.
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Ninja move.
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A long way and time since Whangamata. Well done!
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I can’t think of a more perfect match for The Guardian and for Aaron.
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Congratulations Aaron and The Guardian.
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