OpenX Names Robert Horler as Chief Executive Officer

OpenX has appointed Robert Horler as Chief Executive Officer. Horler will lead the ad tech company as it focuses on expanding buyer-direct relationships, AI-enabled solutions, and enterprise software offerings.

He brings around 30 years of leadership experience across media, advertising, and ad technology. His career includes senior roles at Dentsu Aegis Network, The Financial Times, and News Corp. He also founded and later sold Diffiniti, a search and performance marketing agency.

Before joining OpenX, Horler served as CEO and subsequently a board member at Whalar, a global creator and social agency. During his time there, he supported the company’s growth from 40 to more than 300 employees, according to OpenX.

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In his new role, Horler will oversee the company’s strategy as programmatic advertising undergoes changes driven by artificial intelligence, evolving media-buying practices, and growing demand for transparency. OpenX said its priorities include strengthening direct relationships with media buyers and developing technology that supports advertisers and publishers.

The company also highlighted its OpenXBuild platform, which combines an independent identity graph, cloud-native infrastructure, and AI capabilities. OpenX says it has recorded 15 consecutive quarters of year-over-year revenue growth.

Horler succeeds Joshua Metzger, who served as interim CEO and will return to his position as Chief Legal Officer. OpenX Co-Founder and Chairman Tim Cadogan said Horler’s experience in business growth and customer relationships would support the company’s next phase.