Hearst Magazines Names First Chief Data Officer

In New York, media group Hearst Magazines has transferred Mike Smith to the newly created position of Chief Data Officer.

Hearst's portfolio of platforms, print and digital assets reaches a combined audience of 146 million readers and site visitors each month. The company publishes more than 300 editions and 240 web sites around the world, with 27 titles in the US. It also operates online buzz measurement specialist iCrossing, and holds a majority stake in customer experience management solutions company KUBRA.

Smith most recently served as COO of Hearst Magazines Digital Media. Prior to joining group in 2013, he held a number of positions at Forbes, including President of Forbes.com and Chief Digital officer of Forbes Media. Before that, he was VP and Chief Information Officer at TheStreet.com.

The Hearst Data Studio uses proprietary technology and insights, as well as machine learning and business intelligence across its brands, to enhance audience targeting and attribution analytics for clients. In his new role, Smith is responsible for the strategy and ongoing development of digital ad operations, data capabilities and ad product offerings.

He continues to report to Hearst Magazines President Troy Young, who comments: 'Mike is an evangelist for data science, and his enthusiasm for it and its many applications has caught on across our organization. With his exceptional team, he is enhancing and augmenting our advertising offerings and content creation while transforming Hearst Magazines into the media industry's leading data-driven company'.

Web site: www.hearst.com .