Who has made the shortlist for The Wires’ Ad Tech Personality of the Year and Ad Tech Rising Star awards this year? We reveal all below…
Autumn is finally upon us, and the change of season signals the coming of the year’s biggest events: Christmas, and of course, The Wires.
ExchangeWire’s Ad Tech Personality of the Year and Ad Tech Rising Star awards recognise two individuals who have made a significant contribution to the ad tech industry throughout the year. The former focuses on an industry figure who has consistently contributed to the sector, while the latter shines the spotlight on a less established individual who has also left their mark.
A lot has happened this year, from Chrome’s cookie commotion finally coming to an end, to Google dodging a divestiture in its antitrust search case. While the drama has played out, who has left their mark on the industry?
Just before we reveal this year’s shortlists, we share some thoughts from last year’s winners…
“Ours is a people industry.” Those were the first words out of my mouth as I collected the Ad Tech Personality of the Year award back in November. For me, and for all those who have lifted this trophy before, that’s what makes the accolade so meaningful. It’s recognition from peers, colleagues, and friends who know firsthand the energy, commitment, and collaboration that fuel progress in our industry.
This past year has been dominated by headlines about AI taking our jobs, automation eroding human connection, and younger generations opting for remote-first careers. Against that backdrop, it feels like this award matters even more. It’s a reminder that ad tech doesn’t thrive on technology alone – it thrives because of people.
It’s people who bring the spark, the innovation, who show up with energy, who shine on behalf of their companies and networks, and who spread encouragement and motivation. That collective drive is what keeps our industry dynamic, creative, and resilient.
For whoever lifts the crown at this year’s Wires, remember: it’s not just a personal milestone – it’s a celebration of us all!
Zuzanna Gierlinksa, Chief Commercial Officer at MiQ and Ad Tech Personality of the Year 2024
Winning the Ad Tech Rising Star award last year was one of the most meaningful moments in my career, especially because it’s chosen by a vote of industry peers. Feeling that level of support from the community was incredible, and it truly opened up a world of new opportunities for me.
I’m deeply grateful to ExchangeWire for always championing and elevating emerging leaders, including through The Wires and their ongoing support of AdTech Connect, the initiative I co-founded.
This kind of industry support is invaluable, as it ensures new perspectives and voices keep shaping the future of ad tech. Congratulations to all the nominees – your achievements are inspiring, and I can’t wait to see where your journeys take you next!
Anya Libova, Senior Director, Business Development, DoubleVerify and Ad Tech Rising Star 2024
Now, revealing the names you’ve been waiting for.
The shortlisted nominees for Ad Tech Personality of the Year2025 are:
Alex Block, EVP, Global Programmatic, Jellyfish
Alice Anson, Director of Digital Media, Nectar360
Alice Beecroft, Senior Director, Yahoo
Alison Harding, Vice President Data Solutions EMEA, Lotame
Anders Lithner, CEO, Brand Metrics
Austin Scott, CCO, Bedrock
Camilla Child, Director, Commercial Strategic Growth, The Telegraph
Charlie Johnson, VP International, Digital Envoy
Dave Ajumobi, Lead Consultant, Two Circles
Donia Baddou, Global VP of Partnerships, Lumen Research
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