Chris Williams to lead Publicis Media Exchange

Publicis Media has appointed Chris Williams to the newly-created role of CEO, Publicis Media Exchange (PMX) UK, its investment wing.

Williams will be responsible for a trading and investment portfolio that exceeds £1bn of billings a year in the UK on behalf clients that include Mars, Asda, Visa and Belle.

He joins from Magna, IPG’s strategic media investment unit, where he held the role of global president. Before that Williams worked in senior roles for Publicis Groupe at VivaKi and Starcom Mediavest Group.

Williams will report to Amanda Morrissey, Publics Media CEO and takes up his role later this month.

“Chris has impressive industry experience as well as a deep knowledge of our company,” said Morrissey.

“His blend of expertise and skills will ensure we continue the transformation of both the team and the PMX operation in the UK which will strengthen still further our investment opportunities for all current and prospective clients.”

Williams added: “I am thrilled to be joining Publicis Media and helping the UK team advance their innovative vision and strategy which is delivering momentum with a string of impressive client wins as they bring their tenets of trust, talent, and transformation to life.

“The agencies and their client portfolios are world class and I can’t wait to get started in successfully driving performance for those clients via a PMX offering that is fuelled by data and technology.”