Global digital performance publisher XLMedia appointed David King as its new Chief Executive Officer and as a member of the Board of Directors.
Joining the group from July 1, King will replace the outgoing and current CEO Stuart Simms, who announced he was stepping down on April 4 and will leave following a handover period.
Marcus Rich, Non-Executive Chair at XLMedia, stated: “We are delighted to welcome David to XLMedia and believe that, with his significant digital publishing experience and proven track record of leading change, he will be a key asset in helping us capitalize on a number of growth initiatives.
“David’s extensive knowledge of the media sector makes him the ideal candidate to lead the Group, and I and the Board look forward to working with him.”
King brings vast leadership and financial expertise to his new role with XLMedia, having held several senior executive roles across the media industry.
Most recently, he was CEO of JPIMedia Group, leading its digital acceleration program, incorporating a data-led strategy to drive audience growth and build new digital revenue streams. He also oversaw an ongoing rationalization program, ‘the i’ newspaper’s growth, and the sale of the group in three stages.
Commenting on his new role, King said: “I am delighted to join XLMedia and am looking forward to working with the senior leadership team and all of the Group’s staff, alongside the board, to lead the business in delivering the next phase of its development and realizing the benefits of the Company’s growth strategy.”
King also previously served as Time Out’s first CEO and as CFO of BBC Worldwide for nine years. He also spent six years as a Management Consultant at PwC, working with several blue-chip clients, and is a qualified Chartered Accountant.
