Ep. 99 The CIO Perspective: Kelly Metz from Spark Foundry on AI, CTV, and Simplicity in Media

In this episode of the AdTechGod pod, host AdTechGod speaks with Kelly Metz, Chief Investment Officer at Spark Foundry. They discuss Kelly's career journey through the advertising and media landscape, the importance of relationships in the industry, and the diverse clientele at Spark Foundry.

Kelly shares insights on the evolving role of a CIO, the impact of AI on client expectations, and the shift towards connected TV in media strategies. The conversation also touches on balancing personal and professional life in the fast-paced advertising world.

Takeaways

• Kelly emphasizes the importance of building relationships in the advertising industry.
• She believes that media is inherently fun and constantly evolving.
• Kelly's role as a CIO involves navigating both client and media partner relationships.
• Understanding technology is essential for effective media investment.
• Clients often expect immediate efficiency from AI, which is a misconception.
• The shift to connected TV has changed how brands approach media strategies.
• Kelly advocates for a deeper understanding of audience insights for better outcomes.
• She highlights the need for simplicity in navigating complex media ecosystems.
• Balancing work and personal life is crucial for long-term happiness in the industry.
• Kelly enjoys activities like going to the beach and playing pickleball to unwind.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Kelly Metz and Her Journey

03:01 The Importance of Relationships in Advertising

05:33 Understanding Spark Foundry's Diverse Clientele

08:19 The Role of a CIO in Media Investment

11:06 Navigating AI and Client Expectations

14:02 The Shift in Media Strategies with Connected TV

16:34 Balancing Personal and Professional Life in Advertising

Google’s Antitrust Remedies, Gemini in Chrome, and IAS’s $1.9B Buyout

This week’s episode of The Refresh unpacks major shifts in the adtech landscape. Kait covers the remedies phase of Google’s adtech antitrust trial, Google’s integration of Gemini into Chrome, and Integral Ad Science’s acquisition by private equity firm Novacap. The discussion highlights how legal battles, AI rollouts, and consolidation are reshaping digital advertising.

• Google entered the remedies phase of its adtech antitrust trial, with the DOJ pushing for structural remedies like divesting AdX and DFP, while Google argues for behavioral fixes such as more transparent auction rules.
• Judge Brinkema must weigh whether forced divestitures would dismantle Google’s monopoly or risk destabilizing the broader display ad ecosystem.
• Google integrated its AI assistant Gemini into Chrome, starting on desktop with features like page summaries, live chat, and cross-product task coordination across Maps, YouTube, and Calendar.
• The move follows the search antitrust trial outcome, where Google avoided severe penalties such as being forced to divest Chrome, maintaining its ecosystem dominance strategy.
• Integral Ad Science will be acquired by Novacap for $1.9 billion, taking the company private to accelerate AI-driven product innovation and strengthen its role in ad verification amid growing private equity investment in adtech.

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