Aimia Names COO, Reports Flat Year

Aimia, owner of the Nectar loyalty scheme, has promoted David Johnston to the newly created role of Group Chief Operating Officer, with a remit to further develop its global operating model. Separately, the firm has reported a flat year, propped up by strong EMEA performance based around Nectar UK.

Aimia offers expertise in launching and managing loyalty programs, delivering proprietary loyalty services, and creating value through loyalty analytics. Last September, it hooked up with Sainsbury's to launch a joint venture called Insight 2 Communications (I2C), which uses Nectar data to enable suppliers to develop targeted communications for the supermarket's customers. The first I2C integrated multi-channel marketing campaigns will roll out from the first quarter of 2013.

Johnston (pictured), currently EVP, President & CEO EMEA, joined the company in 2010, after more than thirteen years at PepsiCo, where he held a number of senior marketing and general management roles, including assignments in Eastern Europe, Latin America, UK, and Purchase, NY. Prior to this, he spent six years at Bass plc.

He reports into Group CEO Rupert Duchesne, who comments: 'Operational efficiency and effectiveness are critical to Aimia's ongoing success. David's proven track record of delivering growth across multiple platforms and geographies will sharpen the focus that Aimia needs to evolve into a truly global organization.'

Separately, the company has reported a 1.0% drop in fourth quarter billings to $615.1m, and a 0.4% increase in full year 2012 billings to $2.2 billion. Across the EMEA region, Q4 revenue increased 2.7% to $177.6m compared with the prior year period, while for the full year they rose 11.9% to $639.9m - mainly as a result of an increase in the sale of loyalty units in the UK and new contract terms negotiated with sponsors in the UK and Middle East.

Web site: www.aimia.com .