Mew has been the IAB’s Chief Operating Officer since September 2014. He joined in November 2008 as the first Head of Mobile, before moving into the role of Director of Mobile and Operations which involved merging mobile into the core part of the business. This year, says the IAB, mobile overtook desktop to become the biggest digital platform, in terms of display adspend. Mew has worked across a variety of media and prior to the IAB held senior marketing roles at Freeserve and Orange.
“The IAB will soon represent a £10bn industry in this country, more complex and variegated than any other media sector,” said Richard Eyre, IAB UK Chairman, who led the search. “However, this scale comes with no slowing of innovation and will continue to adapt, demanding both agility of mind and positivity of action.
“Jon not only has a deep understanding of the workings of the IAB today, he has a compelling vision for its future and proven skills to execute on a demanding strategy. I'm excited to be working with him and his team to deliver it”
Commenting on his appointment Mew said: “It’s a thrilling and exacting time to be taking this role. The sensational range of digital services that have become part of our daily life are primarily funded by advertising. I want to re-assert positivity around this.
“The IAB will restructure to provide greater engagement with agencies and advertisers. Also, reflecting the pace and growth of our sector, the IAB’s activities will be focused to serve the industry more assertively.”
Mew takes over as CEO on 13 January 2017, succeeding Guy Phillipson who is stepping down after 12 years in the role.
