Manners resigns from top post at IAB Australia

The Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB) Australia’s chief executive, Alice Manners, is quitting her post after nearly three years in the role.

The CEO confirmed her decision to step down from the post in May in order to take up a new role in Perth. Manners joined the IAB in August 2013 and was tasked with recharging the association’s approach to member recruitment and industry engagement. She came with 20 years’ experience in the industry across Asia-Pacific, holding senior roles with WPP Asia Pacific as well as GroupM.

Under her remit, the IAB launched its ‘big tent’ transformation strategy, which the association said has helped increase and broaden its membership and stakeholder base while improving its ability to adapt to the rapidly changing digital advertising landscape, and particularly mobile.

“Alice's contribution to the industry has been immense,” IAB chairman, Ed Harrison, said in a statement. “She has driven substantial change for both the association and our industry, delivering a suite of initiatives which have contributed to the ongoing health and growth of the digital advertising ecosystem.

“On behalf of the board, I would like congratulate Alice on her many achievements. She leaves the IAB in great shape and well positioned to face the future.”

Core milestones in the last two years have included establishment of the Ad Tech Advisory Council and Agency Advisory Group, as well as a Mobile Centre of Excellence. During this time, the IAB has also worked to overhaul its audience measurement approach and reappointed Nielsen as its preferred supplier.

The IAB said it will commence a search for a replacement immediately and Alice will assist the Board during a transition period.

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