YouTube Hires Ad Agency Veteran Tom Blessington

By Jon Lafayette
( Broadcasting & Cable )
published

YouTube said it hired ad agency veteran Tom Blessington as VP, brand, media & experiences.

Blessington, who had been managing director at Wieden & Kennedy, Portland, will report to YouTube CMO Danielle Tiedt. He will start in mid-September and be based in San Bruno, Calif.

In his new job, Blessington will lead YouTube brand strategy and integrated marketing campaigns.

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“Tom is well known for his culture-shaping, innovative marketing campaigns,” said Tiedt. “We can’t wait for Tom to bring his breakthrough ideas and rule-breaking spirit to YouTube.”

At W+K, Blessington worked on campaigns for clients including Levi’s, Chrysler/Dodge, Facebook, Target, Sony, American Express, KFC, Verizon and Samsung.

"It's a great honor to get the chance to help build, from the inside, one of the world's most important and culturally influential brands. I couldn't be more excited for what's to come,” said Blessington.

Jon Lafayette
Jon Lafayette

Jon has been business editor of Broadcasting+Cable since 2010. He focuses on revenue-generating activities, including advertising and distribution, as well as executive intrigue and merger and acquisition activity. Just about any story is fair game, if a dollar sign can make its way into the article. Before B+C, Jon covered the industry for TVWeek, Cable World, Electronic Media, Advertising Age and The New York Post. A native New Yorker, Jon is hiding in plain sight in the suburbs of Chicago.