The customer relationship marketing (CRM) firm, Merkle (www.merkle.com), which is the nation’s largest privately-held agency, announces its appointment of media veteran, James Warner, to its board of directors. A long-time advisor of Merkle’s executive committee, Warner has played a pivotal role in the development of the company’s digital strategy. The selection of Warner reinforces Merkle’s commitment to growing its market-leading position as a customer relationship marketing (CRM) agency that incorporates a complete range of digital capabilities into the strategic marketing services it provides.

Warner’s deep expertise in digital media and integrated marketing has been a major driver in support of Merkle’s progression into the digital space. He has been involved in this growth initiative, through Merkle’s acquisition of search marketing firm, IMPAQT, as well as its organic development of digital capabilities in the areas of display, mobile and social.

In addition to his Merkle affiliation, Warner serves as a board member, advisor, investor and consultant to early- and growth-stage companies focusing in digital media and marketing. Warner’s portfolio also includes Healthline Networks, INVISION, engage121, ChaCha Answers, Criteo, BoostCTR, Marchex, Accordand Media and  Metamorphic Ventures. During his 30-year career in the media business, Jim built and led organizations in digital media and marketing, network television, cable and pay-TV, and magazine publishing. He has held leadership positions at Avenue A|Razorfish and its parent company aQuantive, Primedia, CBS and HBO. He received a BA with honors from Yale College and an MBA from the Harvard Business School. He is a trustee of Big Brothers, Big Sisters of New York City.

“We are honored to have Jim as a member of our board of directors,” said David Williams, chairman of the board and CEO of Merkle. “Not only does he bring an unparalleled level of digital media expertise to our firm’s governing body, but his character and charisma are also an inspiring personality fit within our deeply rooted company culture. He possesses a keen business acumen; and you simply couldn’t meet a nicer guy. Believe it or not, that’s an important part of the way we do business at Merkle.”

Warner stated, “My involvement with Merkle has given me visibility into its overall marketing strategy. As I evaluated the unique intersection of their strategic marketing competencies, their data, analytic and creative assets and their clientele of top-tier brands – in conjunction with their innovative and growing digital capabilities – I knew we were looking at an extraordinary development for our industry, and an exceptional business opportunity.  And I knew I wanted to be a part of it.”