Kinetic UK chief executive Stuart Taylor to step down this year
The chief executive of out-of-home advertising firm Kinetic, Stuart Taylor, will step down after six years in charge, the company said today.
Taylor, who joined the WPP-owned agency in 2013, will be retiring as UK boss in June after steering the firm through a time of flux in the sector.
Read more: Out-of-home adverts aren't out of ideas
“It has been a true privilege to lead Kinetic through such a period of transformation, not only navigating the rapid expansion of digital inventory and capabilities, but also continuing to drive revenue growth for the medium as a whole,” said Taylor.
“I am so proud of all that we have achieved as a team and I leave an organisation in great shape for the future with a formidable team of passionate experts with whom it’s been an absolute pleasure to work.”
Taylor, who has worked in the media industry for three decades, joined Kinetic after serving as chief executive of Guardian Media Group Radio.
The move comes at a crucial time for the industry, which is contending with growing brand caution in the run-up to Brexit.
Spending on advertising could slow to 4.6 per cent this year, with a further drop-off if the UK does not secure a Brexit deal, according to figures from the Advertising Association and Warc.
But out-of-home advertising has proven more resilient to economic uncertainty, as the sector takes advantage of emerging digital technology.
“I have loved my time in out-of-home and remain of the view that this is the most exciting media sector around, so I will continue to take a keen interest in the industry on its journey of transformation,” Taylor said.
The veteran media executive told CityAM he is “excited and nervous in equal measure” and hopes to remain connected to the industry.
Read more: Firm behind iconic Piccadilly Lights floats on London Stock Exchange
Kinetic global chief executive Marc-Antoine de Roys said: “We are sorry to see Stuart go but fully understand and respect his decision.
“He has been a key part of the success Kinetic has enjoyed over the last few years and a passionate advocate for the out-of-home medium.”