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At a pivotal moment of AI-driven transformation in advertising, strategic industry leadership is crucial. Mediaocean, a foundational software provider for omnichannel advertising, has appointed Michael Kassan, founder of 3C Ventures and one of the most influential figures in modern marketing, as Vice Chairman of its Board of Directors. This move strengthens Mediaocean's leadership as it guides the industry's shift toward connected, AI-powered systems.
Michael Kassan, founder/CEO of 3C Ventures and former founder of MediaLink, joins Mediaocean's Board as Vice Chairman.
Kassan is a highly influential figure in advertising, inducted into the AAF Hall of Fame and featured on Ad Age and Adweek power lists.
He has been a trusted advisor to Mediaocean, guiding key moves like its Certified Service Partner program with IPG, Omnicom, WPP and the Innovid acquisition.
The appointment comes at a critical inflection point for the ad industry's shift to AI and connected systems.
Kassan's role will involve guiding Mediaocean's next phase of strategic growth as an independent technology platform uniting the ecosystem.
The move is supported by CVC Capital Partners, Mediaocean's majority owner, who cited Kassan's value for innovation and strategic deal-making.
Michael Kassan is renowned as a key connector and strategic advisor in advertising, bridging major brands, agencies, media companies, and technology innovators. His appointment formalizes a relationship that has already proven impactful; he provided instrumental guidance during Mediaocean's landmark partnerships with major agency holding companies (Interpublic Group, Omnicom Group, WPP) and its acquisition of ad tech firm Innovid.
Bill Wise, CEO of Mediaocean, emphasized Kassan's unique value: “Michael has an extraordinary understanding of how technology, creativity, and commercial strategy come together to drive growth... now as our Vice Chairman, his perspective will be invaluable as we usher in the next wave of expansion through interoperable AI solutions for the advertising industry.”
The advertising industry is undergoing a fundamental shift, with AI and automation becoming core operational necessities. Mediaocean, which processes over $200 billion in annualized ad spend, is positioning itself as the essential, independent infrastructure layer that connects brands, agencies, publishers, and technology partners.
Kassan’s deep relationships across this entire ecosystem and his history of shaping industry direction make him an ideal guide for this phase. “For much of my career, I’ve focused on building bridges across the marketing ecosystem,” said Kassan. “Mediaocean embodies that same mission... I’m excited to support the company’s continued growth and help guide its strategy at such a critical inflection point.”
Kassan joins the board at a time of recognized momentum for Mediaocean. The company has recently earned accolades including Ad Age’s Best Places to Work and USA Today Top Workplaces, reflecting a strong internal culture. The backing of its majority owner, CVC Capital Partners, is also clear. Chris Stadler, Managing Partner at CVC, stated, “Mediaocean is well-positioned to capitalize on market trends, and adding Michael to the board will provide additional firepower to future-proof the business.”
By bringing Kassan's unparalleled industry insight and connective influence into its formal governance, Mediaocean is strengthening its leadership team to navigate consolidation, technological disruption, and the growing demand for transparent, AI-optimized advertising solutions.
About Mediaocean
Mediaocean is powering the future of the advertising ecosystem with technology that empowers brands and agencies to deliver impactful omnichannel marketing experiences. With over $200 billion in annualized ad spend running through its software products, Mediaocean deploys AI and automation to optimize investments and outcomes. The company’s advertising infrastructure and ad tech tools are used by more than 100,000 people across the globe.
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