Shopper Media Group has announced the appointment of former APN Outdoor CEO and James Warburton (right in main photo) as an investor in, and non-executive director of, at the retail digital out-of-home business.

A world-class executive with extensive expertise in the media, marketing and advertising sectors, Warburton has held senior leadership roles at Supercars, the outdoor media group APN Outdoor, the television company Network 10, the diversified media organisation Seven Media Group and the media agency Universal McCann.

Shopper Media Group CEO Ben Walker (left ) said: “James’s decision to invest in the company and his appointment to the Board will add further levels of experience and expertise, to an already excellent Board, chaired by global marketing heavyweight David Morgan. James will provide strategic guidance in shaping and directing Shopper Media’s rapid growth, as we continue to deliver innovative digital technology and media to marketers and shopping centre owners.”

“James Warburton is a talented and highly experienced media and marketing executive who brings deep industry understanding and experience in media environments and the development of digital platforms. His investment in Shopper Media Group is an endorsement of our plans for the business and James will play a key role in executing those plans,” he said.

“James will also be instrumental in attracting investment that will fuel more growth and establish Shopper Media Group as Australia’s leading digital communication network.”

David Morgan said: “We look forward to working with James, most organisations aspire to attract Directors of his calibre, and for James to commit to SMG is a great compliment to the quality of the business we’re building”.

Warburton added: “I’m thrilled to become part of Shopper Media Group. I’ve long thought that the business is a compelling investment opportunity – so much so, I’ve tried to buy it twice in the past.

“Shopping centres are the perfect environment for highly targeted advertising, giving marketers a way to create meaningful, personalised and highly engaged campaigns. Shopper Media Group is a business that is focused on innovation, data analytics, consumer insights and delivering best practice in the retail out-of-home media industry.

“Shopper Media Group is expanding rapidly and there are still significant transformational growth opportunities to be capitalised on. It’s the type of business and investment that I have been looking for and I’m excited by its potential,” he said.