Pushing The Boundarines With Tech and Advertising: Q&A with Nexxen’s Tanja Williams

By Women Love Tech
on 28 November 2024

In this Q&A, we speak with Tanja Williams,  Head of Client Success, Nexxen to discover what attracted her to the world of tech and advertising, and the key challenges and opportunities she sees in the industry for the year ahead.

Pushing the boundarines with tech and advertising: Q&A with Nexxen’s Tanja Williams
Nexxen’s Tanja Williams

What attracted you to your role at Nexxen?

I have been with Nexxen for over 10 years, and what first drew me to the company was its ambition to push the boundaries of digital advertising. I joined during the “year of mobile” in Singapore, when we were pioneering exciting digital and mobile work. Over the years, I have seen Nexxen grow significantly, particularly through strategic acquisitions that expanded our capabilities and market reach. Being part of that growth and witnessing our teams adapt and innovate (all while growing a family of my own) has been incredibly rewarding. The chance to play a role in shaping Nexxen’s evolution keeps my work here challenging and meaningful, as we continue to drive real impact in the industry.

What excites you about your role in technology?

Technology is an exciting field because it is constantly evolving and offers endless opportunities to innovate and solve complex problems. I am especially energised by the potential of emerging technologies–like AI, ACR and data analytics–to create meaningful impact for brands. The fast-paced, dynamic nature of tech keeps me motivated, as every day brings new challenges and learning opportunities that push me to stay curious and adaptable.

What are some of the current challenges in your industry?

The digital advertising industry faces several challenges, especially around data privacy regulations and increasing competition from global tech giants. With tightening data privacy laws and the need to unify Digital TV planning, activation and measurement, there is a real push for transparent and responsible practices in digital TV advertising. Additionally, brands must adapt to local consumer demands for relevant, high-quality content that respects privacy. Balancing these regulatory requirements with the need for data-driven attribution and personalised consumer experiences is complex, but essential for growth.

How are these challenges being addressed?

To address these challenges, companies are adopting stricter data compliance measures and investing in privacy-conscious solutions like first-party data strategies and contextual advertising. At Nexxen, we are innovating with AI-driven insights and privacy-compliant technologies like ACR to help advertisers connect with consumers without relying on third-party cookies. By collaborating across the industry, we are also working to establish best practices that respect local regulations while maintaining effective marketing capabilities.

How is Nexxen leading the charge in technology innovation?

Nexxen’s approach to innovation involves continuously listening to the market and investing in data and technology to bridge gaps in TV planning and measurement. We focus on tools that enable brands to spend their budgets effectively while ensuring transparency and respect for user data. Our teams work collaboratively–both internally and with partners–to design solutions that help clients measure impact and adapt to the evolving digital landscape. Nexxen’s forward-thinking investments not only help clients stay competitive but also set a higher standard for responsible digital marketing in a rapidly changing industry.

Describe what it’s like working at Nexxen

Having been at Nexxen for more than 10 years, I have always felt that we foster a culture of inclusivity, collaboration and innovation, making it an encouraging and safe environment to grow and thrive.

We are encouraged to challenge conventional thinking and bring fresh perspectives to the table, which keeps our work dynamic and impactful. Nexxen supports professional development through teamwork, nurturing curiosity, and promoting a healthy work-life balance. This collaborative culture, combined with Nexxen’s commitment to advancing the tech industry, makes it an inspiring environment for anyone looking to thrive in the tech world.

As a woman in a tech leadership role, have you faced challenges in your career? Has the tech industry become more supportive of women?

Yes, I have certainly faced challenges, particularly navigating male-dominated environments and working to earn recognition in a field where women are often underrepresented. Early in my career, it was common to be one of the few women in the room, which meant working harder to be heard and taken seriously. This experience can also contribute to imposter syndrome, which affects many women in tech leadership roles.

Additionally, there is often an unspoken pressure to balance career and personal life “perfectly.” This weighed heavily on me after having my first child six years ago while working in a high-demand sector. Over time, though, the industry has become more aware of these challenges, and many companies, including Nexxen, are taking actionable steps to support women’s advancement. Programs for professional development, mentorship opportunities and a supportive environment have made a big difference, allowing women to succeed and thrive in tech.

About Nexxen

Nexxen empowers advertisers, agencies, publishers and broadcasters around the world to utilise video and Connected TV in the ways that are most meaningful to them. Comprised of a demand-side platform (DSP), supply-side platform (SSP), ad server and data management platform (DMP), Nexxen delivers a flexible and unified technology stack with advanced and exclusive data at its core. Our robust capabilities span discovery, planning, activation, measurement and optimization – available individually or in combination – all designed to enable our partners to reach their goals, no matter how far-reaching or hyper niche they may be. For more information, visit www.nexxen.com.

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