News UK has announced a restructure of its commercial division, The Bridge, bringing together print and digital in a shift towards a brand-focused, rather than platform-led, commercial publishing strategy.
The Bridge’s former digital commercial director, Ben Walmsley, will move into the newly created role of commercial director of publishing, expanding his responsibility to include the publisher’s print proposition.
Louise Crosby, digital sales director for The Bridge, will be stepping into the newly created head of strategic development position, working with Oliver Williams, now head of commercial product. Both will report to Walmsley.
“A little under three years ago we set out to change the structure of the commercial side of the business and launched The Bridge with a vision to connect brands with our engaged audiences,” said Dominic Carter, News UK’s group chief commercial officer.
“Today we’re more than a trusted news brand; we’re a multi-platform media, technology and data business, that when put together, can offer advertisers something that is greater than the sum of its parts.
“The changes announced today ensure we are future proofing the business so that we continue to deliver more than just reach to advertisers – we deliver real audience engagement through The Times, The Sunday Times, The Sun, talkRADIO, talkSPORT, Virgin Radio UK, Unruly and Storyful.”
