Paul has worked across digital, creative and direct-to-consumer industries for the past 20 years and has substantial experience in generating new and high growth revenues from large audiences, premium content and global brands, says GMG.
As managing director of Wizarding World Digital (a joint venture between Warner Bros and J.K. Rowling), Paul built and led the digital arm of the global Harry Potter franchise, signing up 24m new members to the fan club in two years.
As managing director of online at ITV plc, Paul launched the ITV Hub streaming service, building an audience of 30m registered users and launching ITV Hub+, the first broadcaster subscription service in the UK. He was also responsible for all digital content and news as well as building the broadcaster’s brand extensions business in gaming, advertiser partnerships and live events. Before joining ITV, Paul was involved in a number of start-ups and held senior roles at Fremantle Media, Channel 4, Vodafone and NM Rothschild. He has previously served as a board director of Digital UK and as a trustee of The Prince’s School of Traditional Arts.
As well as driving GMG’s digital reader revenue strategy Paul will also oversee print publishing, marketing, live events, masterclasses and ecommerce. Paul also joins GMG Ventures’ Advisory Committee.
GMG chief executive Annette Thomas said: “I am delighted to welcome Paul to the Guardian. He brings us a track record in driving customer-centric strategies with transformational results across the media industry. Deeper relationships and growing digital reader revenues are at the heart of the Guardian’s future strategy. The board and I are excited to work with Paul to fully realise The Guardian’s enormous potential.”
Paul Kanareck said: “I’ve been a life-time and devoted reader of the Guardian and it is a privilege to be joining at such a critical time. Accelerated digital disruption is increasing the need and demand for high-quality and independent journalism whilst challenging all aspects of the business. The Guardian has a rich history of innovation and it has the fundamental talent, values and audience relationships to thrive globally.”
