v4c.ai, a leading IT services consultancy specializing in Dataiku, the Universal AI platform, has appointed Vijay Rao to its Board of Directors, effective immediately. This strategic move aligns with v4c.ai’s goals to expand its global presence and enhance its data science, machine learning, and generative AI capabilities.

New Board Appointment

• Vijay Rao:
  • Role: Rao joins as a board member, bringing significant experience from his tenure as founder and former CEO of Apisero (now NTT Data).
  • Background: Rao led Apisero to become the world’s largest pure-play MuleSoft consultancy, known for its innovative approach to integration and automation.

Strategic Importance of the Appointment

• Growth and Expansion: v4c.ai aims to scale its operations into new vertical markets and deepen its expertise in AI and machine learning. Rao’s appointment comes at a crucial time as the company seeks to leverage its partnership with Dataiku to drive transformative results for its clients.
• Synergy with Dataiku: Rao highlights the significant opportunity for v4c.ai and Dataiku to revolutionize data utilization in enterprises. His passion for AI/ML aligns with v4c.ai’s mission to deliver cutting-edge solutions.

Vijay Rao’s Achievements

• Apisero’s Success: Under Rao’s leadership, Apisero grew rapidly, becoming a global leader with over 2,000 certified experts. The company received multiple accolades, including being an 8x MuleSoft Partner of the Year and securing venture capital from Salesforce Ventures. Apisero was acquired by NTT Data in October 2022.
• Current Roles: Rao is a member of the Forbes Technology Council and serves on the board of Snowflake pure-play consultancy, kipi.bi. His expertise in strategic alliances and business scaling will be a valuable asset to v4c.ai.

Statements from Leadership

• Vijay Rao:

  • Comment: “Joining v4c.ai is an honor. The synergy with Dataiku offers a groundbreaking chance to revolutionize data use in enterprises. I’m excited to be part of this AI/ML revolution and contribute to transformative results for our joint customers.”

• Jeremy Stensland, President of v4c.ai:

  • Comment: “We are thrilled to welcome Vijay to our board. His leadership transformed Apisero into a global leader, and his experience will drive our success with Dataiku. His addition reinforces our commitment to excellence and innovation.”

Vijay Rao’s appointment to the v4c.ai Board of Directors signifies a strategic enhancement of the company’s capabilities and market position. His leadership and expertise will be instrumental in advancing v4c.ai’s growth and innovation efforts in partnership with Dataiku.

First Chief Product and Technology Innovation Officer and Chief Cloud and Data Modernization Officer to bolster leadership team and accelerate growth for clients

Acxiom, the global leader in customer intelligence and marketing enablement, has appointed Keith Camoosa as Chief Product and Technology Innovation Officer (CPTIO) and Ankur Jain as Chief Cloud and Data Modernization Officer (CCDMO). These strategic hires aim to redefine Acxiom's products and technology, delivering smarter, scalable solutions to boost clients’ marketing impact and maximize their martech investments.

Background of Keith Camoosa

• Current Role
  • Leads product vision and technology modernization.
  • Reports to KINESSO Global CEO Jarrod Martin.
  • Collaborates with Acxiom’s COO John Watkins.
• Previous Experience
  • Chief Addressability Officer at Dentsu International.
  • Executive roles at Warner Media and IPG Mediabrands.
  • Launched AMP, an audience marketing platform at IPG Mediabrands.
  • Oversaw data products and platforms at Warner Media.

Background of Ankur Jain

• Current Role
  • Responsible for Acxiom's product and data engineering transformation.
  • Reports to Keith Camoosa.
• Previous Experience
  • Global Cloud Practice Lead at Merkle.
  • Led cloud-first strategy and established partnerships with Google Cloud and Amazon Web Services.
  • Drove data modernization and cloud migration projects for Fortune 1000 clients.
• Expertise
  • Over 20 years in big data, analytics, AI, machine learning, and cloud computing.

Statements on the Appointments

• Jarrod Martin, KINESSO Global CEO
  • Highlighted the significance of the appointments in unifying Acxiom and KINESSO.
  • Emphasized the aim to redefine the nexus of data and technology and transform customer engagement.
• Keith Camoosa
  • Expressed enthusiasm about returning to IPG.
  • Aimed to deliver future-forward solutions to enhance client marketing strategies and technology investments.
• Ankur Jain
  • Excited about the opportunity to leverage public cloud computing platforms and AI.
  • Focused on creating next-generation marketing solutions and evolving industry operations.

The appointments of Keith Camoosa and Ankur Jain mark a significant step for Acxiom as it seeks to innovate and enhance its product offerings and technological capabilities. Their leadership is expected to drive the next wave of innovation, helping clients maximize their martech investments and achieve greater marketing impact.

Strategic acquisition will enhance Pathlab’s services to midsize agencies through MiQ's best in class partners, technology, and people

Global programmatic media partner MiQ has announced its plans to acquire Pathlabs', a Media Execution Partner (MEP) known for delivering end-to-end digital media execution services to independent agencies. This acquisition marks a significant milestone in MiQ's growth, enhancing its ability to deliver programmatic excellence across the digital advertising ecosystem.

1. Pathlabs: An Overview

• Founded in 2021, headquartered in Missoula, Montana.
• Offers end-to-end digital media execution services for independent agencies.
• Supported by a 100-person team, managing planning to reporting of performance-based, paid advertising campaigns.

2. Strategic Fit and Opportunities

• MiQ’s technology and agnostic partnerships blend with Pathlabs' market expertise.
• Enhanced programmatic capabilities for clients of all sizes across the U.S.
• Unlocks opportunities for midsize independent agencies.

3. Addressing Industry Challenges

• Importance of innovative and reliable managed services providers in a fragmented digital advertising landscape.
• MiQ's expertise and technology investments help advertisers navigate complexities and achieve their goals.

4. Leadership Insights

• Charlie Neer, co-CEO of MiQ, U.S.: Sees tremendous opportunity in the independent agency market with over $25 billion in digital ad spend.
• Erin Madorsky, co-CEO of MiQ, U.S.: Emphasizes the enhancement of client offerings, insights, and success through this acquisition.
• William Lapointe, CEO of Pathlabs: Highlights the empowerment of clients with advanced tools and talent through the partnership with MiQ.

5. Integration and Future Prospects

• Pathlabs retains its brand identity and operates as an independent business unit under MiQ.
• Follows MiQ's previous acquisitions of Grasp, Samba, and AirGrid.
• Reinforces MiQ’s commitment to enhancing the programmatic experience.

The acquisition of Pathlabs by MiQ signifies a strategic move to enhance programmatic media services for independent agencies. By combining Pathlabs' deep market expertise with MiQ's cutting-edge technology and global partnerships, this partnership aims to deliver unmatched programmatic capabilities, driving success and extraordinary results for clients.

As Hays' global tech partner, Cognizant will use new innovative technologies to enhance customer experience and IT efficiency, in order to drive agility and competitiveness in the business environment

Cognizant has announced a strategic partnership with Hays, the world's leading specialist in workforce solutions and recruitment. This collaboration aims to transform Hays' technology infrastructure and drive innovation, enhancing operational efficiency and improving customer experiences on a global scale.

Strategic Partnership Details

• Objective:

  • Transformation Goals: The partnership is designed to support Hays' mission of evolving into a globally integrated business with a strong focus on IT and data.
  • Technological Enhancement: Cognizant will provide advanced technologies to support Hays' operational delivery and integrated processes, aligning with their evolving business needs.

• Scope of the Deal:

  • Global Support: Cognizant will oversee Hays' Applications, Infrastructure, and Transformation journey across various regions including the UK & Ireland, CEMEA, Americas, and APAC.
  • Modern Technology Environment: The aim is to create a secure and efficient technology environment that enhances customer experience and provides valuable data insights.

Key Benefits and Objectives

• Enhanced Capabilities:

  • Operational Efficiency: Implementation of modern technologies will streamline Hays' IT operations and improve efficiency.
  • Innovation and Agility: By developing a strategic global perspective, Cognizant aims to make Hays more agile and foster innovation.

• Transparency and Financial Planning:

  • Improved Governance: The partnership will enhance transparency into global technology operations, supporting better financial planning and execution.

Executive Quotes

• Rohit Gupta, Managing Director UK & Ireland, Cognizant:

  • "We are thrilled to be selected as the strategic technology partner for Hays. Our goal is to manage key business risks effectively, enhance technology capabilities, and increase transparency, supporting Hays' business needs and fostering innovation."

• Tim Fulton, Chief Technology Officer, Hays:

  • "Cognizant will manage our IT operations globally, overseeing our IT service desk, business applications, and infrastructure. This partnership will provide enhanced capabilities and a stable IT environment, allowing us to focus on delivering exceptional recruitment services."

Expected Outcomes

• Operational Support:
  • Seamless Systems: Cognizant will ensure the smooth operation of Hays' IT systems, enhancing global customer and candidate experiences.
  • Automation and Efficiency: The partnership will leverage automation to simplify business processes, platforms, and applications, supporting an efficient recruitment process.

The strategic partnership between Cognizant and Hays marks a significant step in transforming Hays' technology landscape. By enhancing operational efficiency, improving customer experiences, and driving innovation, this collaboration is set to support Hays' global recruitment efforts and future business growth.

Stagwell, a network renowned for transforming marketing, has announced its acquisition of LEADERS, a Tel Aviv-based digital agency specializing in influencer marketing and social commerce, along with its SaaS platform, InfluencerMarketing.AI (IMAI). This acquisition enhances Stagwell Marketing Cloud's PRophet Comms Tech Suite, integrating advanced AI technologies for influencer marketing into its offerings.

1. Acquisition Overview

• Acquired Entities: LEADERS, a digital agency, and InfluencerMarketing.AI (IMAI), an AI-powered influencer marketing platform.
• Purpose: Enhance Stagwell's marketing technology suite with AI-driven solutions for influencer marketing.

2. LEADERS and IMAI Details

• Founders: Eran Nizri and Yehonatan Arami, established in 2017.
• Platform Capabilities: IMAI connects brands with over 300 million creators globally, offering campaign management tools, robust analytics, and sales prediction models.
• Clientele: Includes major brands like Nespresso, Samsung, Colgate-Palmolive, Coca-Cola, Playtika, Estée Lauder, and Superdry.

3. Strategic Benefits for Stagwell

• Enhanced Offerings: Integration of advanced AI technologies into Stagwell’s PRophet Comms Tech Suite.
• Global Expansion: Marks Stagwell’s first agency acquisition in Israel, supporting its substantial global expansion efforts.
• Industry Impact: Aims to redefine influencer marketing with cutting-edge technology and a global network.

4. Statements from Key Executives

• Mark Penn, Chairman and CEO of Stagwell: "The acquisition strengthens our Marketing Cloud with innovative AI solutions and marks a significant step in our global expansion."
• Aaron Kwittken, Founder and CEO of SMC's Comms Tech Suite: "The integration of LEADERS and IMAI will amplify our capabilities in digital and influencer marketing."
• Eran Nizri, CEO of LEADERS: "Joining Stagwell provides an opportunity to lead the influencer marketing industry into a new era with expanded resources and global reach."

5. Leadership and Integration

• Leadership Roles: Eran Nizri remains Group CEO, Itamar Gonsherovitz continues as CEO of LEADERS’ digital agency operations, and Yehonatan Arami will lead business development.
• Integration: LEADERS and IMAI will be integrated into Stagwell's Comms Tech Unit, enhancing its influencer and digital marketing strategies.

6. Recent Acquisitions

• 2024 Acquisitions: LEADERS is Stagwell’s seventh acquisition this year, following Team Epiphany, Sidekick, What's Next Partners, PROS, Business Traveller, and BERA.

The acquisition of LEADERS and IMAI by Stagwell marks a transformative milestone in enhancing its global influencer marketing capabilities. By integrating LEADERS' digital expertise and IMAI’s AI-powered platform into its PRophet Comms Tech Suite, Stagwell is set to lead the industry in digital marketing innovation and expand its global footprint.

Mural, the leading visual work platform designed to enhance team collaboration and innovation, has announced Leigh-Margaret Stull as its new CEO. This appointment comes at a pivotal moment as Mural seeks to expand its impact and drive further growth in the dynamic market for collaboration tools.

1. New CEO Appointment: Leigh-Margaret Stull

• Excitement and Vision: Leigh-Margaret expresses enthusiasm about joining Mural and her belief in the company’s mission to transform teamwork and business strategy.
• Experience and Expertise: Over 25 years of leadership experience, including roles as Chief Operating Officer and Chief Product Officer at CareerBuilder.
• Skills and Achievements: Proven track record in growth, innovation, and operational excellence, with a strong focus on user experience and leveraging AI and emerging technologies.

2. Leadership Transition

• Predecessor: David Baga steps down after growing Mural into a vital tool for businesses.
• Board’s Confidence: Jeff Lieberman, Managing Director at Insight Partners, highlights the Board’s confidence in Leigh-Margaret’s leadership capabilities.
• New Opportunities: Leigh-Margaret’s appointment comes as the demand for innovative collaboration solutions continues to rise.

3. Leigh-Margaret’s Goals for Mural

• Customer and Employee Focus: Emphasis on aligning Mural’s growth strategies with customer needs and enhancing the work experience for employees.
• Passion for Collaboration: Leigh-Margaret’s personal and professional background reflects a deep commitment to collaboration methodologies and hybrid work environments.
• Future Vision: Aims to inspire the Mural team and community, leveraging her expertise to elevate Mural’s collaboration culture.

4. Mural’s Expanded Expertise and Offerings

• LUMA Institute Research: Mural’s platform benefits from decades of research to support creative and human-centered collaboration.
• Professional Services: Tailored solutions for unique needs and workflows.
• Collaboration Approaches: Incorporates agile methodologies and a suite of tools to enhance organizational productivity.

Leigh-Margaret Stull’s appointment as CEO marks a new chapter for Mural, one focused on leveraging her extensive experience to drive growth and innovation. As the company continues to lead in the visual work platform space, Leigh-Margaret’s leadership is set to enhance Mural’s offerings and expand its impact in the evolving market for collaboration tools.

Also announces appointment of Niklas Savander as Chairman of the Board

Outpost24, a leading provider of cyber risk management and threat intelligence solutions backed by Vitruvian Partners, has announced the appointment of Ido Erlichman as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. Erlichman brings over 20 years of experience in cyber security, technology, and finance, having previously transformed Kape Technologies into a leader in digital privacy and security.

1. Ido Erlichman’s Background and Experience

• Over 20 years in cyber security, technology, and finance.
• Former CEO of Kape Technologies.
  • Led the company to serve 7.5 million customers worldwide.
  • Oversaw its sale for $1.75 billion in 2023.
• Transformed Kape Technologies into a category leader in digital privacy and security.

2. Vision and Leadership at Outpost24

• Erlichman’s commitment to building on Outpost24’s strong foundation.
• Focus on expanding and combining product lines.
• Emphasis on innovation and customer success.
• Simplifying cyber exposure management for modern-day attack surfaces.

3. Niklas Savander’s Appointment as Chairman of the Board

• Niklas Savander's extensive experience as an executive and CEO in the technology industry.
• Previous roles include Chair and Board member at Klarna, Easypark, Cint, and Silverfin.
• Current Chairman Jussi Wuoristo will remain a director on the Board.

4. Statements from Key Figures

• Ido Erlichman on his new role and vision for Outpost24.
  • Excited about expanding and enhancing product offerings.
• Niklas Savander on welcoming Erlichman as CEO.
  • Confidence in Erlichman’s ability to advance Outpost24’s strategic goals.
• Appreciation for outgoing CEO Karl Thedeen’s contributions.

5. Recent Developments at Outpost24

• Launch of The Outpost24 Exposure Management Platform in June.
  • Provides continuous monitoring of attack surfaces and proactive threat remediation.
  • Aligns with Gartner’s top trend for 2024: Continuous Threat Exposure Management (CTEM).
  • Facilitates all steps of Gartner's CTEM definition: scoping, discovery, prioritization, validation, and mobilization.

The appointment of Ido Erlichman as CEO marks a new chapter for Outpost24 as the company continues to innovate and lead in cyber risk management and threat intelligence. With Erlichman’s extensive background and strategic vision, supported by new Chairman Niklas Savander, Outpost24 is poised for continued success and global growth.

New Solution Empowers Shopify Brands to Engage Superfans and Maximize Lifetime Value

Okendo, the leading customer marketing platform, continues to innovate with the launch of Okendo Loyalty, the final component in its suite of customer engagement solutions. Designed to empower Shopify brands, Okendo Loyalty offers deep customization options and an intuitive interface, enabling brands to create tailored loyalty programs that maximize customer lifetime value. With features accessible across all plans and expert guidance from Okendo's loyalty specialists, brands like Dixxon, Luna Bronze, and Jordan Craig have already chosen Okendo to elevate their Loyalty initiatives.

As ecommerce competition intensifies and customer acquisition costs rise, Okendo emerges as a strategic ally, helping brands tackle these challenges head-on by driving engagement and revenue growth. At the heart of this strategy are Superfans, highly engaged customers who champion their favorite brands, fueling organic growth and fostering genuine community connections.

Matt Goodman, CEO & Co-Founder of Okendo, explains, "We believe that addressing modern ecommerce challenges hinges on cultivating and mobilizing a community of Superfans. Okendo's suite of five products — Loyalty, Referrals, Reviews, Quizzes, and Surveys — provides a unified platform to empower brands to grow rapidly and sustainably through customer-led marketing initiatives."

Okendo Loyalty empowers brands to offer flexible rewards and incentives, transforming customers into influential growth drivers through referrals, repeat purchases, and high-quality reviews. Furthermore, brands gain access to valuable customer insights, enabling personalized communications and enhancing overall customer experiences. This holistic approach not only enriches customer interactions but also accelerates brand growth by fostering authentic connections.

Rob Varon, Director of Marketing at Jordan Craig, shares his experience: "I've had a positive experience using all of Okendo's five products together. The tech just works. It's easy to streamline workflows with Okendo's connected suite of products. Ecommerce is a puzzle, and Okendo contributes many pieces to that puzzle."

With Okendo Loyalty, Shopify brands can unlock the potential of their customer communities, driving sustainable growth and cultivating lasting brand loyalty in today's competitive ecommerce landscape.