Starcom launches search division

Global - Starcom MediaVest Group (SMG) has launched SMG Search, a search marketing resource that offers Starcom's clients search marketing capabilities as part of an integrated strategic media offering.

"Strategic insights are at the forefront of everything we do and SMG Search gives us and our clients insight into what people want to know about. Search is the most fundamental pillar of online and if there's one thing clients should do well, do search well," Nic Jones, managing director of digital operations for SMG, said.

SMG Search will be headed by director of search Rob Marston, who was previously an account director at search marketing agency 24/7 Real Media where he managed clients across classifieds, automotive and travel categories. Marston is joined by Flavia Waas, also formerly of 24/7 Real Media, who becomes search marketing campaign manager, heading SMG clients' search campaigns using DoubleClick technology.

To increase more benefits of on and off-line coordination, SMG is working with Google, Yahoo Search Marketing and Sensis Media Smart. Google has also established a dedicated global account team for Starcom parent company Publicis Groupe.

Australia is the first market outside the US to open SMG Search and it will have offices in Sydney and Melbourne. Its foundation client is General Motors Holden.

SMG Search's first work is to integrate into SMG's global search project for GM Holden using global learnings from more mature markets such as the US to benefit the local Holden business and create a more effective online spend.