Jerry Wright, the chief executive of ABC, is to step down at the end of 2015 after seven years in the role.
Since 2008, Wright, who was also president of the International Federation of ABCs between 2010 and 2014, has helped transform the industry body from a predominantly print circulation auditor to a digitally-focused media industry standards and verification provider, operating across a wide range of digital and other channels.
“I have had a wonderful seven years in post and seen ABC change and grow its services and capabilities very substantially over that time,” said Wright.
“I now feel it is the right time for me to step back and consider my next move, most likely elsewhere in the media or not-for-profit spheres.
“ABC, the industry ‘stamp of trust’ is now better-equipped to meet the demands presented by the rapidly-evolving media world and in particular to take advantage of the opportunities presented by emerging digital platforms, as traditional media silos evolve. I will follow news of ABC’s future successes with great interest.”
Prior to joining ABC, Wright was marketing and innovation director at Birds Eye, and before that had held a number of senior roles within Unilever.
Commenting on Wright’s departure, Sally Cartwright, chairman of ABC, said: “The Board will be sad to lose Jerry Wright, of course, but he is leaving ABC in excellent shape for the future. Having worked closely with Jerry for the last five years, I shall be very sorry to see him go, but he has an excellent, flexible and highly capable team at ABC.
“His successor, when appointed, will be building on solid foundations to take ABC onwards into the challenging future of media measurement.”
