FT.com promotes ad chief to MD role

by Tristan O'Carroll Media Week 21-May-08, 12:00

LONDON - The Financial Times has appointed Rob Grimshaw as managing director of FT.com, taking up his new position on 1 June.

Previously FT.com global online advertising director, Grimshaw has played a key role in the Financial Times’ digital strategy.

In his new role, Grimshaw will be the board representative for FT.com, responsible for its commercial performance and overall strategy. He will work closely with James Montgomery, editor of FT.com, who will take the lead in the design of the site, as well as its editorial content.

John Ridding, chief executive of the Financial Times, said FT.com revenues have risen by 40% over the past year and traffic increased by more than 80%. He added that its decision to drop charging for parts of the website has delivered more than 400,000 registrants.

“Rob's appointment will help sustain our online momentum as we enter the next phase of FT.com's development,” Ridding said.