Are Media has appointed experienced digital, data and technology leader Shannon Fitzpatrick as Head of Data, AdTech & Commercial Operations, as the company accelerates its focus on data-led growth, digital transformation and commercial innovation.

Effective immediately, Fitzpatrick will lead Are Media’s digital advertising ecosystem, first-party data strategy and commercial operating model, leveraging the company’s owned and partner network, including America’s largest publisher, People Inc, which together reaches more than 10 million Australian consumers each month.

The appointment forms part of Are Media’s broader strategic shift towards a more integrated, omnichannel commercial model designed to connect high-intent audiences with brands in meaningful and privacy-first ways.

Fitzpatrick brings more than 20 years’ experience across digital media, marketplaces and advertising technology, with senior leadership roles at eBay Classifieds, Domain, News Corp and Fairfax spanning commercial strategy, AdTech, product, data and operations.

Prior to joining Are Media, he founded FMA Consulting, specialising in media growth, privacy-first advertising and responsible AI governance. He has also contributed to a wide range of industry initiatives through the Independent Media Agencies of Australia (IMAA), most recently helping develop Privacy, Data Governance and Responsible AI principles for the Australian media sector. 

Are Media’s Sales Director, Anna Quinn said Fitzpatrick’s appointment reflects the company’s continued investment in strengthening its ad-tech and data offering.

“Shannon brings a rare combination of deep AdTech expertise, commercial leadership and experience in governance. His experience will play a critical role in strengthening our data capabilities, streamlining our commercial operations and unlocking new growth opportunities for our partners that are measurable and differentiated when it comes to connecting with Australian women at scale,” Quinn said.

Fitzpatrick said, “I’m incredibly excited to be joining Are Media and working with such an experienced leadership team to accelerate our data-first strategy, alongside an omnichannel AdTech ecosystem that connects high-intent audiences with brands through the power of premium content.

“What excites me most is the strong momentum already underway across the business. The focus now is simplifying our offering, embedding strong governance and advancing privacy-centric, responsible data solutions that provide brands with more effective and measurable ways to connect with consumers.”