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Pure SEO announces new CEO and managing director
Richard Conway and Cornelius Boertjens
Pure SEO has announced the appointment of Cornelius Boertjens as chief executive officer, with founder Richard Conway stepping into a new role as managing director.
Boertjens brings more than 25 years of digital marketing experience to the role. He co-founded Catchi, a performance-driven digital consultancy acquired by the Havas Group in 2018. Under his leadership, Catchi tripled its EBIT post-acquisition and earned a strong reputation in conversion rate optimisation (CRO) and strategic digital transformation.
Boertjens is also an active angel investor and board advisor across multiple ventures.
“I’ve always believed in working with businesses that challenge the status quo,” says Boertjens. “Pure SEO has long been a leader in search, and I’m looking forward to building on that foundation as we evolve into the next era; where data, AI, and personalisation reshape how we deliver value.”
Voice and vision
Conway, who launched Pure SEO in 2009 with just $200 and a single-page website, has led the business through more than 15 years of growth and innovation. Now as managing director, he’ll focus on driving strategic direction, championing AI leadership, and continuing to represent the voice and vision of the business.
“This is an exciting and intentional shift,” says Conway. “Cornelius brings fresh energy and deep expertise. It gives me the space to focus on where the industry is heading next, and make sure we’re leading the way.”
The leadership change marks a key milestone as Pure SEO evolves into The Optimisers, an agency designed for growth-focused businesses that want smarter, data-led marketing that drives real outcomes.
