Alex Parsons is the new CarAdvice CEO as Nine signals a strategic focus on the automotive publishing business.
Parsons, who was previously Nine’s chief digital officer, returned to the media company in January to head up the sale of its events and entertainment division, which was finalised last month.
Now as CarAdvice CEO, Parsons will lead the business’ growth following its merger with Drive Network which gives it reach across radio, print, digital and TV.
Greg Barnes, CFO of Nine and CarAdvice chair, says the appointment marks Nine’s renewed push in the automotive category.
“Alex has a strong history at Nine, including leading Nine’s initial acquisition of CarAdvice, and it’s great to welcome him back,” says Barnes.
“He is a proven leader and his experience in the digital, advertising and data space will be the key as we chart the next stage of growth for CarAdvice.”
“The opportunity for him and the team is really around how they can capitalise on the assets within the combined group and build on CarAdvice’s current growth trajectory.”
In his previous role as digital boss at Nine, Parsons oversaw the launch of 9Now, the rebranding of ninemsn to nine.com.au and the creation and implementation of Nine’s data strategy.
“I am thrilled to be taking on the role of CEO of CarAdvice and Drive after returning to Nine to oversee the sale of its events and entertainment division,” Parsons says.
“Having led the acquisition of CarAdvice I have a great appreciation for both the category and the opportunity ahead of us. I am looking forward to working with both the CarAdvice team and the wider team Nine to realise its full potential across the automotive vertical.
“Nine’s audience reach and data, combined with the strength of CarAdvice and Drive in the category, has tremendous potential that the team and I will be singularly focused on realising.”
Parsons takes over from Andrew Beecher who left the role last week.
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