Network Ten owner ViacomCBS AUNZ has expanded its sales team with the establishment of a new independent agencies and direct sales division.
The new division will be led by Ian Smith, who returned to Ten last month after five years away.
Smith recently worked as general manager of trading and operations for national sales at News Corp Australia. He will report to Ten’s national sales director Lisa Squillace and will work closely with Sydney sales director Diane Ho and digital sales director Sophie Hicks Lloyd.
The Melbourne sales team has also been restructured, with the appointment of Adam Quick to the new role of head of independent agencies and direct sales, while John O’Brien steps into the new role of head of agency. The pair were previously Network Ten group sales managers in Melbourne.
“The launch of the new Independent Agencies and Direct Sales division is a big step for us and our clients,” says Rod Prosser, ViacomCBS Australia and New Zealand chief sales officer.
“It represents a significant investment and highlights the commitment of ViacomCBS to creating the best Sales team to deliver the best results for clients.
“The merger of the Network 10 and ViacomCBS sales departments on 1 May this year created one business that covers the best local and global brands, shows and events. Together, we offer marketers the power to engage and connect with people aged under 50 at every age and every stage. Now we are building on that incredibly strong proposition with a new focus on the important independent agencies sector and direct clients.”
The restructure comes 18 months after Ten re-established its in-house sales team, following its split from MCN in 2018. Since them, the network says it’s seen strong revenue share growth.
“With almost 20 years’ experience across sport sales, direct sales, content creation, agency investment and revenue management, Ian’s appointment as sales director, independent agencies and direct sales, is going to make a big difference for our clients in those areas,” Squillace says.
“I’m also thrilled to congratulate Adam and John on their new roles. Their talent, enthusiasm and professionalism make them a critical part of our Melbourne team. Melbourne is a critically important market and a unique market, given its large number of agencies, so it makes sense to have two great sales people leading our team there.”
As a result of the shake-up, Melbourne sales director Damon Jackson is leaving Ten after almost six years.
“Damon has been a pleasure to work with and generated great results for our Melbourne business. He leaves us with my very best wishes and a big thank you from everyone at 10,” Prosser says.
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