• by Larissa Faw , October 26, 2018

Merge is appointing Lauren Tucker as the agency's first-ever chief strategy officer to work across its client base.

"My first priority is to build a strategic framework centered on the network's creativity, data and technology strengths” says Tucker. “With that framework we can find competitive opportunities for our clients to grow."  

Based in Chicago, Tucker will oversee teams located in the Windy City as well Boston and Atlanta. She will report Merge CEO Ron Bess. 

“My core team of data scientists, analysts and strategists will deliver what I like to call 'grassroots' strategic and analytics services,” says Tucker. "I’m modeling this approach based on my work as a community organizer. Our subject matter experts work with everyone on the business to support their efforts with specific expertise and continuous subject matter leadership."

Her background includes digital, brand and technology. Tucker spent more than a decade with the Martin Agency, where she created a consumer-intelligence consultancy, as well as five years at Leo Burnett in media and planning. She has worked on brands such as including Kellogg’s, Kraft, BFGoodrich, Hoover, Geico and Walmart.

Most recently she served as founder/CEO of Do What Matters, an insights and strategy consultancy. 

“Lauren has a diverse, well-rounded background that covers strategy, planning, CRM, media and performance analytics. Importantly, every role she’s played has been data driven,” said Bess.