BlueKai Opens First Office Outside US

Online data exchange BlueKai has opened a new office in London, and appointed former Microsoft exec Zuzanna Gierlinska to lead its European expansion as Managing Director.

Launched in 2008, BlueKai aggregates data from online shopping and research activities, and offers it to marketers, ad networks and publishers to boost their ad targeting initiatives. Earlier this year, the firm teamed up with mobile marketing and ad technology company Velti to give clients of its Data Activation System access to the latter's data, and allow targeting of consumers on mobile devices.

BlueKai says its expansion to Europe has been driven by the trend for widespread adoption of audience customization and targeting techniques in the region.

Gierlinska (pictured) joins with a fourteen-year digital media background. Most recently, she worked at Microsoft Advertising as Global Agency Director, in charge of the division's media strategy, relationship, and business with Aegis Media. Prior to this, she was Head of Sales at behavioral targeting specialist Drive PM (previously owned by aQuantive and now part of the Microsoft Media Network).

Omar Tawakol, BlueKai CEO, comments: 'Zuzanna's expertise in driving strategic partnerships with key partners will be instrumental as we accelerate our growth and break into new markets. I am confident that she will rapidly expand our first International office.'

Web site: www.bluekai.com .