News

14 May 2008 download pdf

Olympic Marketing Communications Expert Joins VERO

VERO, the sport business communications consultancy, has today announced the appointment of Karen Webb as Director. Karen brings with her over 12 years brand, marketing and communications experience with the Olympic Movement, and her appointment represents an important step in the development of VERO’s offering.

Karen joins VERO fresh from her role as Vice-President, Image and Marketing Communications at the International Olympic Committee (IOC) where she helped to develop the marketing and brand strategy to promote, enhance and protect the Olympic brand. She was also instrumental in devising the Olympic Games’ Image and Identity strategy and led the development of the IOC’s marketing programmes through its key partners including TOP Sponsors and Organising Committees.

Commenting on the appointment, VERO CEO Mike Lee said: “This is a significant appointment for VERO. Karen has a near-unparalleled understanding of how brands and sponsors can bring an Olympic association alive - she’s been there and done it and there are very few people in the marketplace with Karen’s experience. I know she will bring a new dimension to VERO’s campaigning approach to communications. We are thrilled to have her on board.”

Karen Webb added: “VERO has strong positioning, an excellent reputation, and an impressive track record. This is a great opportunity - I couldn’t think of a more appropriate fit at an exciting time to join the dynamic brand and team that is VERO.”

Karen’s appointment comes at an important time for VERO with revenues for the 2007/08 financial year - VERO’s second - exceeding £1.5 million. The agency’s rapid growth has also prompted it to relocate to spacious new offices in London’s Covent Garden. The new offices are now operational and will be fully opened later this month. Karen joins VERO on May 19th and the agency expects to announce a further senior appointment shortly.

Karen Webb Career Highlights
Karen has 22 years of brand, corporate and media marketing experience, including:

  • Vice President, Image & Marketing Communications, IOC
  • Senior Manager, Marketing & Media Communications, Sydney 2000 Olympic Games Organising Committee
  • Head of Publicity & Promotions, Australis Media / Galaxy TV
  • Karen also spent four years working with some of the world’s largest drinks brands and began her career in • journalism.