Nielsen Creates C-Suite Digital Product Role

Nielsen has appointed former Publicis exec Akhil Parekh in a new role, Chief Solutions Officer of Digital Product, responsible for expanding its value proposition to the advertising ecosystem through new digital products and enhancements.

Parekh (pictured) worked most recently as EVP, Managing Director at Publicis Groupe, overseeing the building of a new media platform for agency planners and buyers. Earlier he held senior roles at Mediaocean, 4C Insights (acquired by Mediaocean), Rovi Corporation, Amp'd Mobile and ExcelaCom.

In his new role, overseeing strategic partnerships as well as the firm's teams focused on planning and ads products, he wil work with Deirdre Thomas, the group's Chief Product Officer for Audience Measurement, who will continue to lead product strategy for Nielsen's content solutions and existing ratings and reporting teams.

Nielsen CEO Karthik Rao says of the hire: 'As we continue to evolve with the industry and focus our efforts on streaming and our convergent TV strategy, we must continue to make strategic investments in innovation. Akhil will play a critical role in helping develop the products and strategies our clients need to succeed in the advertising ecosystem. I'm so excited for our future and feel confident that the new additions to our team will help us achieve our vision'.

Web site: www.nielsen.com .