Sarla Fernando, the director of regulatory and advocacy for the Association for Data-Driven Marketing and Advertising (ADMA), has resigned from her role.
She joined the industry body in June of 2020, having previously worked at Goodfern Consultancy across the UK, Australia and Sri Lanka and as the audience management director and senior corporate counsel at Bauer Media Australia.
ADMA CEO Andrea Martens said Fernando is a "powerhouse" when it comes to privacy and compliance in the Australian marketing industry and has been instrumental in championing responsible marketing to help build and retain customer trust.
“ADMA is committed to building upon the great work she has helped to pioneer, driving the importance of responsible marketing, advocating on behalf of the industry and informing and educating marketers of the practical application of best practice in compliance in Australia," Martens said.
“To do this we are growing our Regulatory team with two new key team members, including a new Head of Regulatory and Advocacy. They will work together with Rob Nichols (Regulatory and Policy Manager) and Antonia Francis (ADMA Content Strategist), and be supported by the broader ADMA Regulatory & Advocacy Working Group led by Chair Peter Leonard."
Martens thanked Fernando for the "incredible work" she has done for the entire Australian marketing industry in her time at ADMA.
"She has not only helped train thousands of marketers in privacy and compliance best practice, but has also forged vital relationships with regulators and key government organisations to help give the entire marketing community a real voice in the development of key legislation," she said.
“Moreover, she is a real champion of the need for responsible marketing and her professional, patient, kind and humble approach has ensured everyone who has come into contact with her is better for it.
"She has always found ways to make what can be complex topics interesting and approachable for people at all levels in the industry and can be proud of the work she has done to raise awareness and standards across the board. While she may be moving on, she will continue to play a role within the ADMA community."
Have something to say on this? Share your views in the comments section below. Or if you have a news story or tip-off, drop us a line at adnews@yaffa.com.au
Sign up to the AdNews newsletter, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for breaking stories and campaigns throughout the day.