Mediabrands promotes Daniel Simon to COO

Simon will be responsible for maintaining each company’s independence, driving operational synergies as well as managing day-to-day challenges throughout G14m, which includes China, India, Japan and world markets Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Taiwan, the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia. 

His appointment is effective immediately.

Simon's appointment marks an effort by Mediabrands to strengthen its senior management in Asia.  Jim Hytner, formerly UM president for EMEA, was recently named president of G14. Eric Bader became president of G14 for Initiative and also continues in his role as chief strategy officer, Worldwide. Mauricio Sabogal, formerly worldwide MD at Initiative, is now president of world markets at Initiative and UM. Simon will work closely with Hytner and Sabogal, as well as Andrea Suarez, who is COO of world markets global at UM and Initiative.

Simon joined UM in September 2006 as CFO of UM Asia-Pacific. In 2008, he was appointed CFO of Mediabrands Asia-Pacific and in March 2010, he was named a member of the board at Mediabrands, which saw him involved in Asia’s management while still CFO. Simon has nearly 20 years experience both in advertising and the Asia-Pacific region.

"It’s fantastic to have someone as respected and experienced in Asia as Daniel," said Hytner. "After five years in the group, the COO role is a natural step for him. We are confident that Daniel will continue to build the UM and Initiative brands, ensure consistency of our service offering and help us capitalise on the immense business opportunities in the region. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, we look forward to seeing Daniel help our clients thrive in the region.”