Richard Foan, executive chairman of the Joint Industry Committee for Web Standards (JICWEBS), is to step down at the end of 2018 – exactly 20 years since the foundation of the original committee.
Foan, who will stay involved in the media industry through advisory and non-executive roles, is one of the pioneers of trusted industry standards for internet advertising. He is a regular face at conferences and events with a career spanning more than 35 years and has been one of the chief architects of online accountability, helping media companies find new ways to deliver trust and transparency.
Foan has advocated global standards for local markets, serving for over 18 years as the chairman of the International IFABC.org Digital Standards Group.
Latterly he forged a partnership between JICWEBS and the US-based Trusted Accountability Group (TAG) to bring consistency and transparency to the UK and US markets.[advert position=”left”]
Two years ago, at the request of industry bodies including ISBA, IPA, IAB and AOP, Foan formed the stand alone not-for-profit company, JICWEBS Ltd. Over 120 companies now subscribe to the industry agreed Standards for trusted digital ad trading.
“Richard deserves recognition for driving JICWEBS since its inception and ensuring the agenda moves forward,” said
John Montgomery, GroupM Global Executive Vice President of Brand Safety.
“While there is more to do, the platform and the team he has built stand as a great model that media industry professionals can all benefit from.”
Commenting on his departure, Foan said: “As the media industry evolves, it is more important than ever to focus on delivering the transparency that is so essential to creating brand trust.
“I am immensely proud of what JICWEBS has achieved so far. With our fantastic team, the support of four great trade bodies, and an impressive group of media professionals behind our cause, now feels the right time to hand over the reins.”
The JICWEBS board is now considering applications for the new role of CEO/MD of JICWEBS.
