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WPP Media New Zealand announces new head of data and technology
Sarah Kenny is joining WPP Media New Zealand as head of data and technology.
WPP Media New Zealand has appointed Sarah Kenny into the newly created role of head of data and technology.
In an era where first-party data, addressable media, and AI-powered optimisation are reshaping how brands connect with audiences, Kenny brings proven expertise in crafting data and technology strategies that deliver measurable commercial outcomes.
She is a respected leader with more than twenty years’ experience across agency, client‑side and consultancy environments.
Turning complexity into commercial advantage
Kenny joins from WPP Media UK, where she was head of data and technology solutions at Wavemaker, leading unified data and technology capability across consulting, ad operations and client strategy, and shaping end‑to‑end product roadmaps for client solutions.
She was also a key contributor to the WPP UK team that secured the UK Government’s lead media agency contract in December 2025, a landmark win built on WPP’s AI‑powered audience insight and data capability through WPP Open.
“Data and technology have shifted from a specialist function to the engine room of modern marketing,” said John Halpin, CEO, WPP Media New Zealand.
“Sarah is exceptional at turning complexity into commercial advantage for clients. Her experience building world‑class data capability in the UK, combined with her understanding of the New Zealand market, makes her ideally placed to lead this critical capability for WPP Media New Zealand.”
A true homecoming
Kenny said her appointment reflects the scale of opportunity for data-led growth in the local market.
“Returning to New Zealand to lead WPP Media’s data and technology strategy feels like a true homecoming, especially with the chance to work on the brands I grew up with. I’m excited to help our clients simplify complex data landscapes into clear, actionable strategies that deliver real commercial impact, connect their brands with consumers and position them for sustainable growth in the AI era.”
Reporting to Halpin, Kenny will lead WPP Media New Zealand’s data and technology strategy, including delivering data‑led solutions across audience strategy, marketing technology, campaign measurement and first‑party data activation.
She will work across all WPP Media agency brands EssenceMediacom, Mindshare and Wavemaker as the senior data and technology partner for key clients, manage technology vendor relationships, integrate WPP’s global data infrastructure, and drive the adoption of emerging capabilities such as AI‑powered analytics and personalisation.
Her appointment is effective immediately.
