ISBA’s director of media and advertising, Bob Wootton, is to leave after 20 years of service, it has been announced.
Wootton, who also writes a regular column on Mediatel, said he has decided to move on from the body that represents UK advertisers to pursue a portfolio career comprising industry-level work and non-executive roles, as well as resuscitating his private consultancy offering. He will also be spending more time with his much-beloved guitar collection.
“Bob brought his serious skills as a media buyer to the client side of the table, developing those skills as the media landscape transformed,” said Mike Hughes, ISBA director general.
“Advertisers and the whole industry have been the beneficiaries of his 20 years in ISBA’s media chair.
“During Bob’s time guiding ISBA’s media agenda with our members we have seen some serious achievements on traditional media, and, importantly, refocused advertisers on the issues arising from the fast-changing digital media ecology.
“Advertisers continue to benefit from the epic campaign Bob led at the time a single ITV was formed and CRR was born. Media consolidation remains one of the key considerations advertisers face, alongside the various issues of ad blocking, ad fraud, brand safety, viewability and data ownership in the digital space. Bob’s clear leadership has helped ISBA members navigate an increasingly complex media landscape.
“ISBA members and staff alike will miss his telling leadership and friendship but naturally wish him every success in this next stage of life.”
Wootton started his media career in the mid-70s as a TV buying manager before taking on a succession of high-profile advertising roles. However, he has spent the last 20 years lobbying on behalf of UK advertisers. He is set to leave on 22 April this year.
ISBA confirmed they are actively looking for a replacement.
