XLMedia appoints Julie Markey as Interim Chair

XLMedia has appointed Julie Markey as its Interim Chair, adding that Christopher Bell has formally stepped down from the position of Non-Executive Chair.
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Digital performance publisher XLMedia has appointed Julie Markey as its Interim Chair, adding that Christopher Bell has formally stepped down from the position of Non-Executive Chair.

In a statement, XLMedia said that Markey, currently a Non-Executive Director of the firm and Chair of the Remuneration Committee, has been appointed as Interim Chair whilst the process of appointing a replacement for Bell takes place.

Markey has significant experience in people strategy across international organizations and considerable knowledge of large-scale consumer businesses.

Through 30 years of senior leadership experience working for Ocado plc, Tesco plc, and Diageo, Markey brings knowledge in human resources strategy and development on an international scale to the Interim Chair role.

Back in January, Bell announced that he would be vacating his Non-Executive Chair and Non-Executive Director roles at XLMedia and Rank Group PLC respectively to join Codere as an Independent Director, acting as the Non-Executive Chairman of the Group.

Commenting on his departure from XLMedia, he said: “It has been a privilege to chair XLMedia for almost eight years. 2022 marks the beginning of a leaner Group structure set to benefit from significant progress made in rebalancing the Group to have a greater focus on regulated high-growth markets like US Sports.

“It feels like the right time to step aside and let someone new support the business through its next phase of growth. I wish everyone in the Company and its shareholders every success for the future.”

Bell spent nearly eight years as Chair of XLMedia, supporting the company through its IPO in 2014, helping it deliver several successful strategic acquisitions, as well as providing support throughout its recent business restructuring.

Markey said on Bell’s departure in January: “On behalf of the board, I would like to thank Chris for his significant contribution, dedication, and commitment to XLMedia in his role as Chair and we wish him well in all of his future endeavors.”