ZenithOptimedia hires digital lead

ZenithOptimedia has appointed MediaCom’s Stefan Bardega as chief digital officer at ZenithOptimedia.He will join the London-based ZenithOptimedia Worldwide division in March.Reporting to Belinda Rowe, global managing partner, ZenithOptimedia, Bardega will set the vision for how digital will elevate the network’s live ROI proposition. He has been tasked with driving digital innovation around the network, and will work with leaders across ZenithOptimedia and its group of companies – Performics, Newcast, Moxie and Ninah – to design digital strategies for global clients.As part of his new role, Bardega will also work with ZenithOptimedia’s partner companies, including Google and Facebook, on joint ventures and initiatives to foster creativity and new approaches in areas such as mobile and online video.Bardega (pictured) joins ZenithOptimedia from MediaCom, where he was managing partner, heading up digital in the UK across all platforms, including social, programmatic, mobile, SEO, and display.In 2009, he helped launch MediaCom Beyond Advertising, the network’s content division, which has now rolled out around the world. Prior to that, he was digital strategy director at MediaCom UK, leading the digital strategy for clients, such as Mars, VW and T-Mobile. Stefan has also worked at All Response Media, where he was head of digital, and at Outrider, where he was digital research manager.Rowe said: “Bardega is one of the leading lights in the digital world and we are absolutely delighted that he is taking up this important role at ZenithOptimedia. He brings with him experience of launching new operations, driving digital strategy for global brands and leading successful new business pitches – all of which will be invaluable in his role as chief digital officer.”