Karthik Rao Replaces David Kenny as Nielsen CEO

Long-time Nielsen exec Karthik Rao has been named as the company's new Chief Executive Officer, replacing David Kenny who moves to the role of Executive Chairman.

Rao (pictured) joined Nielsen 23 years ago, and since early 2023 has served as CEO of the Audience Measurement business, focusing on enabling a currency across all media distribution and consumption models globally. During his time with the firm, he has also been Chief Operating Officer; Chief Product, Technology, and Operations Officer, leading its Global Media P&L; and earlier CEO Portfolio / Gracenote; EVP, Digital Enablement; and MD, Media Analytics.

He takes over the CEO role from Kenny, who joined in 2018 after serving as IBM's SVP of Cognitive Solutions - in this role he led the firm's AI platform and portfolio and oversaw the development of big data business IBM Watson. Kenny comments: 'I have been fortunate to lead this company through some extraordinary times in the past five years, working alongside Karthik for much of it. As I transition to my new role and my operating responsibilities come to an end, I hand over leadership to someone with extensive experience in knowing what Nielsen does best, backed by the skills and understanding to position the company for a vibrant future'.

Web site: www.nielsen.com .