Data strategy to be spearheaded by Annalect Global CEO, Slavi Samardzija, at Stagwell Group
Stagwell Strengthens AI-Focused Leadership Team
Stagwell, the marketing network known for its innovative approach, has bolstered its data and technology strategy with key appointments, including Slavi Samardzija as the head of data strategy and John Kahan in a pivotal technology role.
Slavi Samardzija, a seasoned executive with a background at Omnicom, has joined Stagwell this fall to lead the company's forward-looking data strategy. The specific title for his role will be announced later this year. Meanwhile, John Kahan, a tech industry veteran with experience at Microsoft and IBM, has been appointed as the first Chief AI Officer at Stagwell.
Stagwell's strategy centers on leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to transform marketing and advertising operations. This push includes the integration of AI and proprietary platforms across its network, aiming to improve efficiency, innovation, and revenue growth.
One such proprietary platform is "The Machine," an AI-driven platform connected with Adobe systems. This platform, which is still in development, aims to unify tools, teams, and data to deliver up to 15% cost savings by 2026 and streamline workflows across various disciplines.
The company's approach includes deploying AI tools such as automated agents for ad targeting, AI-generated press releases, and data dashboards powered by simple prompts. This digital transformation has already resulted in 12% year-over-year growth in digital transformation net revenue, with Marketing Cloud solutions accounting for 52% of total revenue.
In addition to technology investment, Stagwell emphasizes operational efficiencies. The company has realized $20 million in annualized cost savings through technology and back-office consolidation ahead of schedule. These AI-driven initiatives and strategic leadership hires are accelerating organic growth, particularly among top clients like GM, Visa, Adobe, and Target.
Elspeth Rollert, previously CEO of Stagwell Marketing Cloud, will continue to lead the Marketing Cloud division, now as its CEO. Mansoor Basha, who previously worked at Accenture, has been appointed as the Chief Technology Officer of Stagwell Marketing Cloud, a new position.
With these appointments, Stagwell is looking to deepen its position in marketing technology, positioning itself as an AI-native marketing network focused on innovation, client growth, and cost savings. This strategic move comes as the marketing landscape is reshaped by AI, making Stagwell a key player in the industry's digital transformation.
[1] Stagwell Press Release: [Link to Press Release] [2] Adweek Article: [Link to Adweek Article] [3] Marketing Dive Article: [Link to Marketing Dive Article] [4] Campaign US Article: [Link to Campaign US Article]
- Stagwell's recent hire, John Kahan, will be serving as the first Chief AI Officer, reinforcing the company's focus on integrating artificial intelligence into its business operations.
- As the head of data strategy, Slavi Samardzija's appointment is aimed at expanding Stagwell's position in the field of marketing technology, aligning with the company's ambition to be an AI-native marketing network.
