• by Fern Siegel , Yesterday

The Cornett ad agency has hired Karen Phillips as vice president, creative media. She reports to Christy Hiler, Cornett CEO.

A seasoned 25-year ad vet, Phillips has experience on both the agency and client side, as well as expertise in media — from linear TV to social, streaming to OOH.

In her new post, she will work closely with Chris Finnegan, the Lexington, Kentucky-agency's vice president of performance media to more fully integrate agency disciplines.

“Brands are craving transparency, commitment and distinct thinking. That’s the opportunity in front of us,” said Hiler. “Karen will play a critical role in helping our clients — both current and future — unlock more from their media investments. Her leadership strengthens our ability to not just buy share of voice but also to earn it.”

Previously, Phillips was senior director, integrated media planning at OMD USA, Atlanta. Before that, she held senior roles at UM, Razorfish, AKQA and Starcom. She developed media strategies for brands such as Microsoft, Visa, Kraft and McDonald’s and on the client side, Lucid and Audible.

Cornett's client work includes Nissin Foods, NerdWallet, Busch Light and A&W Restaurants.

(Photo: Karen Phillips, Christy Hiler, Chris Finnegan)