Google appoints new A/NZ managing director

Mel Silva

Google is bringing back its regional marketing strategy and operations leader to head up the A/NZ business.

Mel Silva has been with the search giant for more than 11 years and has been in a number of leadership roles across Australia and APAC during this time. Most recently, she was managing director of go-to-market and operations for Google APAC based out of Singapore.

She’s replacing Jason Pellegrino, who took the top job at Domain last month.

Prior to joining Google, Silva was general manager of Fairfax Digital’s direct access. She also boasts of senior marketing roles with Citibank, ING Direct and AMP.  

“There is a tremendous digital opportunity for the region, with businesses and consumers increasingly making use of tools such as AI and machine learning,” Silva said in a statement. “During my time in APAC, it’s been wonderful to see and share stories of the innovations coming out of Australia and New Zealand, and I can’t wait to come back and work with our partners and clients to help them innovate, grow and succeed.”  

Google president Asia-Pacific, Karim Temsamani, said Silva was an exceptional leader and credited her for the skill of bringing out the best in people and partners.  

“Through her extensive Google experience, she has built an in-depth knowledge of the region, which makes her perfectly placed to continue to develop our engagement with consumers and businesses across Australia and New Zealand,” he said.  

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