Vanessa Clifford steps down as Newsworks CEO

Newsworks’ CEO Vanessa Clifford is stepping down at the end of March after more than two years in the position.

Clifford joined the marketing body for national newsbrands in 2012 as client services and strategy director, following an 11 year stint agency-side at WPP’s Mindshare. She was promoted to CEO in 2016.

“It has been a privilege to lead Newsworks at such an important time in its history,” Clifford said.

“The work we have done in championing the value and effectiveness of safe and trusted premium newsbrands positions the sector strongly for the future.”

During Clifford’s tenure Newsworks has worked to define the effectiveness of newsbrands for advertisers as publishers have increasingly seen their ad revenues gobbled up by the Facebook/Google duopoly.

The body has produced a number of high profile research projects – including the award-winning Planning for Profit – and has won trade body of the year three years running at the Mediatel Media Research Awards.

[advert position=”left”]
Commenting on the news, Tracy De Groose – who was appointed executive chair in September last year – added: “Vanessa has brought vision and leadership during a hugely important time for our industry. We thank her for creating foundations on which we can build, and she leaves with our best wishes.

“The need for a vibrant and effective case for newsbrands remains stronger than ever. Our industry continues to face intense disruption and resetting the legacy narrative is a priority.

“The latest PAMCo data underlines a compelling story: national newsbrands are growing their reach, as consumers recognise the value of trusted journalism and advertisers embrace quality, brand safe environments.”