News Digital Networks Australia’s managing director Nicole Sheffield today announced the appointment of Simon Smith as executive director of content marketing.
Smith, who starts his new role immediately, joins News DNA with over 20 years’ experience in media and content marketing.
He will be responsible for developing News DNA’s content marketing strategy and initiatives across multiple platforms to drive new revenue and partnerships. His appointment will extend News Corp Australia’s leadership position in content marketing. He will work closely with News Corp Australia’s established content marketing, custom publishing and commercial content businesses across the country.
Sheffield said: “Content marketing is growing businesses and growing connections with brand partners and it is doing so in new and innovative ways that advertising alone cannot achieve. I’m delighted to have someone of Simon’s experience join us in this newly created position to lead this expanding area for News DNA.
“We are experts in the creation of premium content with a legacy of strong content brands. As a publisher, creating content is what we do, and we do it best. Simon will work with clients to establish the important role of content in the marketing mix. His highly successful track-record in this field makes him a great addition to the business.”
Smith said: “Owned media channels have never been more important for brands and for many marketers it’s not enough to just reach audiences any more. They want to build them and own them. I’m thrilled to be joining Australia’s largest digital publisher and at an exciting time for News DNA as we help brands to tell their stories in a genuine and authentic way with a full service content offering from strategy to fulfilment.”
Smith joins News DNA from Fairfax Media where he was managing director of their content marketing division for three years and during this time he launched their in-house content marketing studio. Mr Smith has worked in the Australian media industry across commercial, marketing, editorial, radio, television, print, events and digital, holding numerous senior positions with News Corp Australia and PBL. He was also on the board of NewsMediaWorks. As an industry expert he is regularly invited to present at events and conferences around the country on content marketing.
