Havas CX Helia hands insider top data and martech job

Cirencester-based Havas CX Helia has promoted managing partner Ben Braiden to head of martech and data in a move which will see him drive the overarching strategy across the agency.

Braiden, who has been in the same role for the past nine years, has led the agency’s longest standing account, Royal Mail, alongside the Royal British Legion and Diageo accounts, using data, technology and creativity to connect people to brands.

Braiden will now oversee the use of new tools to improve Havas CX Helia’s data offering for all clients, alongside championing the use of marketing technology initiatives.

He will also continue to build the insight and analytics capability within the agency, in response to growing client demand. Braiden’s new role will see him ensure technology continues to be an essential part of every facet of marketing, from digital output to data-driven decision-making.

Braiden, who has nearly 20 years’ experience, was previously an account director at Blueberry Wave (now HH Global Interactive) and a data planner and buyer at The Ark.

He has strong experience in data and martech, launching and implementing large-scale loyalty schemes for big name brands, including Gap.

Havas CX Helia managing director, and co-president of Helia UK David MacMillan said: “Ben has a proven track-record in this space, building brilliant and highly effective relationships with many of our biggest clients, alongside evolving the sophistication of their CX, using our data and tech offering.

“He was the natural choice to take this fast-growing side of our business forward with energy and lead our hugely talented team of specialists in this field – I’m delighted by the appointment.’’

Braiden, added: ‘’As the world around us changes and tech provides new opportunities to interact with customers, it is imperative that brands enhance their capabilities and work with their agencies to make this a priority.”