Nielsen Names David Kenny As CEO

David Kenny. Photo: IBM

IBM SVP/Cognitive Solutions’ David Kenny will join Nielsen as CEO beginning Dec. 3, to replace Mitch Barns, who is retiring.

“The Board is delighted to announce David’s appointment,” said Nielsen Executive Chairman James Attwood. “His decades of experience in Big Data, artificial intelligence, cloud technologies, and media make him perfectly suited to lead Nielsen at this critical time. Having spent a substantial portion of his career working in the advertising world, he has a deep and holistic understanding of advertisers and how best to serve them, and he has a proven track record of implementing growth strategies, overseeing strategic transactions and creating value for stakeholders. His multi-disciplinary background and history of success make him a great fit for this position. The Board looks forward to David’s participation in the ongoing strategic review as we work to enhance shareholder value.”

“Nielsen is uniquely placed at the intersection of marketing data and technology. In today’s era of fast moving, ever changing consumers and markets, it is this combination that drives businesses forward,” added Kenny, who also previously served as Chairman/CEO for The Weather Company, as well as President of AKAMAI. “I’m thrilled to join this industry-leading company at this point in time, when so much is possible.”