Motorola hires digital chief to boost online activity

Motorola is bolstering its digital marketing strategy with the creation of a chief digital role for Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Russia and key Asian markets.

Marco Ottonello, an online consultant, has been brought in to take on the role of regional interactive and digital manager and will work in conjunction with the handset maker’s agencies Ogilvy Advertising and AKQA.

Ottonello’s main task will be to leverage digital media activity, such as the use of social networking sites, to work alongside traditional media channels.

The Asian countries he will oversee are understood to include India, Vietnam, Thailand and South Korea.

It is believed that he will report to Andrew Morley, vice-president of marketing for Europe, the Middle East and Africa, Russia and key Asian markets.

Earlier this year, Motorola UK marketing director Rachel Ward announced her departure as part of a wider restructure within the company’s marketing department.

Simon Collinson, director of marketing strategy for Europe, the Middle East and Africa, moved to take on Western Europe as part of a widening of his remit.

In the same month, corporate vice-president of global marketing Jeremy Dale left Motorola, after four years at the company.

Dale had taken over from chief marketing officer Casey Keller as Motorola’s lead marketer in March 2007.

The handset maker was not available for comment at time of going to press.