James Stroude joins FirmDecisions as Global Head of Operations

FirmDecisions has hired former WPP finance veteran, James Stroude, to its senior team as Global Head of Operations – a role that has been created for him. In this role, he will spearhead excellence and business relationships – ensuring quality in global audit services and continuing to build working relationships with agency holding companies – to benefit FirmDecisions’ clients.

James is an accomplished senior finance professional with extensive expertise across many marketing disciplines. Prior to joining FirmDecisions, he spent most of his career with the WPP group – working in the UK and Australia – including as Commercial Finance Director at Mindshare, where he initiated, built, and oversaw all commercial relations. Most recently, he led the finance team at WPP Health Practice as UK CFO, where he focused on strengthening and simplifying the healthcare agency portfolio.

Announcing the news, Federica Bowman, Global CEO of FirmDecisions, said:

"James is a fantastic addition to the FirmDecisions team as we continue to modernise our offer. We understand that our clients are looking for more streamlined ways of working, to deliver high value and improve their working relationships with agency partners. We have embraced this.”

“James will play a vital role in building the audit firm of the future. His senior finance and operational experience across the media and non-media sectors provides us with updated and refreshed knowledge of agency operations and finance systems. James’s role will focus on developing stronger relationships with holding companies and building the best processes and solutions for our clients.” Bowman added.

Commenting on his new appointment, James Stroude, said:

“Next year will be a huge year for auditing. FirmDecisions will be working to ensure the complexity of a very difficult year is effectively and efficiently untangled. I am looking forward to being a part of the team and supporting clients through this process, while continuing to improve our own services and grow the business worldwide.”

 

FirmDecisions was acquired by Ebiquity plc in 2012. Since then it has continued its impressive growth and international expansion; it now operates in 14 markets around the world. Its client list spans almost every sector and business.

James joins a senior team that is being restructured with sustained global growth of the business in mind. This news follows the announcement of Federica Bowman as FirmDecisons’ Global CEO as well as the appointment of David Brocklehurst as Chairman in August. Additional senior hires in key global markets are due to be announced before the end of the year.

James begins his new role immediately.