Facebook advertising management system Buddy Media is opening of its European Headquarters in London, as the US firm expands overseas.
Luca Benini is joining Buddy Media as Managing Director, Europe, effective August 1, 2011. Prior to Buddy Media, Benini served as VP, Commercial Director, comScore Europe.
As comScore’s third employee in Europe, he was instrumental to the development and growth of the company’s sales, client service and account management teams.
In his new role at Buddy Media, Benini will be responsible for the management and growth of Buddy Media’s business across Europe.
“Buddy Media has already been working with many clients on a global scale, and officially establishing our European presence will enable us to further accelerate our growth,” said Benini. “I’m looking forward to leading Buddy Media’s European Headquarters as we continue to service the intense demand being generated from brands for true global enterprise social media technology solutions.”
In addition, Buddy Media has named Erinn Marzo Vice President of International Sales. Marzo is a Buddy Media veteran, and was hired during the company’s first year of operation. Marzo will continue her focus on strategic accounts from the company’s European Headquarters, collaborating with Fortune 500 brands to develop long-term, multinational social strategies.
“As Buddy Media continues our rapid global expansion plans, Luca’s experience growing comScore from a relatively new player in Europe to an established brand makes him a valuable addition to our company,” said Michael Lazerow, founder and CEO, Buddy Media. “Combined with Erinn Marzo’s years of experience in the industry and with Buddy Media, we have a leadership team in place whose expertise is second to none.”
The expansion builds on the company’s global presence via its partnership with WPP, the world’s largest communications services group. In October 2010, WPP announced a $5 million investment and global partnership with Buddy Media.
With the launch of its European headquarters, Buddy Media will continue to grow its relationships with global brands and agencies, as well as further support existing client relationships.
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