• Advertising Age, Monday, June 16, 2008 10:30 AM

Architects of the modern media business are passing the baton to a younger generation of executives, as they make room for a new crop of talent. From digital chops to entertainment background, these leaders have a diverse skill set, which is attractive to potential clients.

The media buying landscape is shifting dramatically, and fragmentation of media means every player needs multi-platform, cross-channel deals and the ability to craft branded-entertainment pacts.

The new guard shows some impressive credentials. For instance, Laura Desmond, 43, new CEO of SMG the Americas is a 20-year veteran of the Starcom media empire. She orchestrated the launch of SMG Multicultural and is credited with pushing for stronger digital capabilities across the entire network, especially search.

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