FirmDecisions Signs up Media Industry Authority Alan Rutherford as Non-Executive Chairman

Leading independent media and marketing compliance firm FirmDecisions has appointed Alan Rutherford as its Non-Executive Chairman.

Rutherford is a well-known media and advertising industry figure, with an extensive career both client and agency side. He started at Dorlands Advertising, before serving as European lead for both Sony PlayStation and Kodak at Ogilvy & Mather. In 1998, he was appointed Head of Media Worldwide at Unilever, where he is credited with implementing market-changing innovations in how media is planned, bought, and sold.

Following a decade at Unilever, Alan moved to Digitas as global CEO, helping build the biggest digital network at the time. In 2010, he created Axiology, a marketing services management group which included both FirmDecisions and Fairbrother Lenz Eley. Both companies and Axiology were subsequently sold to Ebiquity, the company that owns FirmDecisions. He also served as Global President of the International Advertising Association for three years.

Rutherford said of his appointment: “This is a fascinating time to be involved in the debate on transparency that is swirling around advertisers, media agencies, and their advisers. As an industry, we need to create some calm, clear rules of the road and ensure a level of trust is restored between all parts of the advertising ecosystem. I’m looking forward to bringing my perspective gained from working for both advertisers and agencies to FirmDecisions."

Stephen Broderick, CEO of FirmDecisions, added: “Alan is one of the very few established industry figures who understands the needs of all three media tribes – clients, agencies, and advisors. While at Unilever, he implemented best practice guidelines for brand teams and their agencies that are still the benchmark for all clients today. At this compelling time in our industry’s lifecycle, I’m delighted he’s come to FirmDecisions, to help today and plan for tomorrow.”

Stephen Broderick and Alan Rutherford are available for interview and comment. 

For further information, please contact Rosanne Saunderson on (020) 7650 9724.