Think TV industry group appoints inaugural CEO

Industry group Think TV Board has appointed marketing executive Kim Portrate as its inaugural CEO.

Think TV was formed in May to represent Nine Network, Seven Network, Network TEN and Multi Channel Network / Foxtel as to engage the advertising and marketing communities.

Portrate has a background in packaged goods, telecommunications, finance and tourism industries and was most recently Chief Marketing Officer at travel service provider Helloworld Limited.

“Following an extensive local and international search, we are delighted that Kim has accepted the position as CEO of Think TV. Kim’s extensive experience and outstanding credentials as both a senior marketer and in senior strategic roles in agencies is a perfect combination of skills as we seek to stamp TV’s dominance as a powerful medium that delivers results for advertisers,” Think TV Chairman Russel Howcroft said.

“Kim will work with the Think TV Board and team as we invest in research and other industry initiatives to demonstrate that television is a clear leader in return on investment.”

“It’s an exciting time for the TV industry and I’m thrilled to take this important role at Think TV. Television remains at the cultural heart of society and builds emotional connections unmatched by any other media,” she said.

“It will be my goal to lead a collective effort by our broadcasters to prove that TV is the clear leader in terms of advertising impact and return on investment.”

She begins on July 1st.

A commercially-minded marketer and recognised in 2015 as one of Australia’s top 15 CMOs, Portrate began her career with Unilever as a brand manager and has also worked with Power Brewing, Pepsi Cola, Optus and AMP.

Portrate also spent five years as General Manager, Consumer Marketing at Tourism Australia, where she led global marketing in 22 international markets, before joining Helloworld. At Helloworld, Portrate launched a new retail brand, consolidating five legacy businesses, and managed the largest brand-led transformation in retail travel.

She has also worked at creative and media agencies in senior strategy roles and relocated to New York to join FCB and BBDO as head of planning. On her return to Australia, she became Director of Insights and Innovation with Carat.