The Drum makes key hires as it accelerates new era
2021 has begun with a raft of senior hires for The Drum. Having introduced a new manifesto in 2020, the latest additions will help to build upon the company’s focus on solutions as The Drum dials up its own digital transformation.
Introducing The Drum’s new hires: (from l-r) Linda Beal, Alex Zeevalkink, Claire Adams and Matt Brightwell
The new arrivals are Alex Zeevalkink, who joins as head of digital publishing; Claire Adams, who takes up the post of head of data; Linda Beal, who joins the leadership team as chief of staff; and Matt Brightwell, who becomes platform manager for The Drum’s self-serve content offering, Open Mic.
Together, they bring a wealth of experience to the company from previous roles with the likes of Fuji, Cannes Lions and Broadcast Intelligence, strengthening The Drum’s digital, data and commercial offerings across its diversified portfolio.
Speaking of the new hires, The Drum co-founder Gordon Young said: “In 2020 many businesses faced some big decisions and we were no different. Our choice was to look forward, not back, and adding top talent like this will help us to provide the solutions our global community of readers and valued partners want from us, now and in the future.”
The Drum’s emphasis on solutions has already been reflected in last year’s strengthening of the editorial department, the introduction of new digital festivals, development of platforms including Open Mic and The Drum Recommends and the launch of innovation and experience space The Drum Labs.
Along with the physical destination, the continued evolution of thedrum.com to deliver a great experience for readers will be central to the team’s priorities for 2021. On her appointment to the head of digital publishing role, Zeevalkink said: “The transformation of our industry has been accelerated and I’m excited to join a business that is already future-facing and has such strong foundations to continue its growth globally.”
The new arrivals join the company as The Drum enters a fresh editorial era under new editor Cameron Clarke, who was formally appointed to the post earlier this month.