Ascential Plc, the owner of Cannes Lions and a global information and analytics company, undergoes a significant leadership transition with the successful completion of the sale of its Digital Commerce business to Omnicom Group Inc. Duncan Painter, who served as Chief Executive Officer for 12 transformative years, departs to lead Flywheel Digital, a newly established practice within Omnicom.
Philip Thomas, a seasoned leader with an impressive track record within the company, assumes the role of Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer at Ascential, effective immediately. Scott Forbes, Chairman of Ascential, expresses gratitude for Duncan Painter’s visionary leadership, acknowledging its transformative impact on the company’s portfolio. The Board wishes Duncan success in leading Flywheel Digital at Omnicom.
Duncan Painter’s tenure witnessed substantial changes in Ascential’s portfolio businesses to meet the demands of the modern era, evolving the company into a dynamic force within the industry. Independent non-executive directors Joanne Harris and Charles Song also step down from their roles on the Ascential Board in light of this transition.
Welcoming Philip Thomas, Scott Forbes highlights his longstanding and respected leadership within the company. The Board looks forward to collaborating closely with Philip in steering Ascential through its next phase of growth.
Philip Thomas, also Chairman of Cannes Lions, brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having served as CEO of Lions Festivals for ten years. His diverse career includes journalism, publishing, and executive roles, reflecting his commitment to innovation and strategic evolution.
In his own words, Philip Thomas expresses enthusiasm for the new chapter, outlining a vision to use Ascential’s resources to help customers succeed through events, data products, and consultancy services. The leadership change positions Ascential for continued success and adaptability in the evolving business landscape.
He began his career as a journalist, working on national and international magazines and newspapers, and editing Empire, the UK’s biggest-selling movie magazine, before moving into publishing and becoming Managing Director of FHM worldwide, launching the iconic men’s magazine in more than 30 countries.
He was appointed Managing Director of Emap’s Australian and South East Asian division, based in Sydney for three years, before returning to the UK and being appointed Chief Executive Officer of Lions Festivals.
Philip is a Non-Executive Trustee of the Media Trust and Malaria No More charities, and was cited as one of the Agents of Change for Gender Equality by the UK’s Management Today magazine.
