Matt O'Grady Becomes CEO of Nielsen Catalina

In New York, Nielsen has promoted Matt O'Grady to the position of Chief Executive Officer of its shopper insights specialist Nielsen Catalina Solutions (NCS).

Originally launched in 2009, NCS is a joint venture between Nielsen and digital media specialist Catalina, with Nielsen the majority owner since last year. The division helps marketers and media companies measure and improve ad performance by linking what consumers watch, see or hear on TV, the web, in print, or on the radio - with what they buy.

O'Grady (pictured) previously served as Nielsen's EVP and Managing Director of Local Media, responsible for strategy and development for local television and audio clients. He joined the group more than fifteen years ago as EVP, Sales & Client Services and then became President of segmentation specialist Nielsen Claritas (now Consumer Activation). In 2013, in addition to leading local TV and local agencies, O'Grady assumed responsibility for the company's local radio business when it acquired Arbitron (now Nielsen Audio). Before joining Nielsen, he held senior positions at National Decision Systems, AT&T, and the Daniel Yankelovich Group.

Nielsen COO Steve Hasker comments: 'Matt is a world-class leader. His experience and expertise in media, advertising and performance management make him uniquely positioned to take on the CEO role and drive performance and innovation for Nielsen Catalina Solutions and its clients'.

Web sites: www.nielsen.com and www.ncsolutions.com .