United States — Horizon Media Holdings and Havas have announced the creation of a new global agency network, ‘Horizon Global’, which will operate as a commercial joint venture between the two companies.
The network, headquartered in New York and spanning more than 100 countries, combines the media operations of Horizon Media and Havas Media Network. With a reported $20 billion in combined global billings, the new entity positions itself among the largest media investors worldwide.
With this, Horizon Global will focus on US-centred international client opportunities. Outside of this scope, both Horizon Media and Havas Media Network will continue to manage their own client portfolios independently, as well as pursue new business.
The venture will also integrate Horizon’s Blu platform with Havas’ Converged.AI system, resulting in a new AI-native service called BluConverged, which the companies say will provide improved insights, faster outcomes, and greater transparency for global clients.
According to Bill Koenigsberg, CEO and founder of Horizon Media Holdings, the recent creation of Horizon Global is ‘rewriting the agency network playbook’.
“With an open ecosystem approach, Horizon Global fosters cooperation, prioritises transparency, and places power back in the client’s hands. As the first agency network built in the AI era, we’re leading with future-forward ways of working, collaborating, and delivering outcomes for clients – and we’re doing it responsibly at global scale. This is an exciting new chapter for Havas and Horizon,” said Bill.
Yannick Bolloré, CEO and chairman of Havas, described the move as a significant step for both organisations. “I’ve known Bill for years, and I’m incredibly proud Horizon has turned to Havas as its global partner. In a shifting industry, we look forward to a very exciting partnership, combining our complementary strengths.”
The newly formed agency also announced its leadership structure with Bob Lord appointed interim global chief executive, effective immediately, while continuing in his role as president of Horizon Media Holdings. Based in Paris, Renata Spackova will serve as global chief operating officer and oversee Horizon Global’s strategic deployment across more than 100 markets.
Lord and Spackova will work alongside a board of directors comprising Koenigsberg, Bolloré, Peter Mears, global CEO of Havas Media Network, and other senior figures from both companies.
“Horizon Global enters the market at a dynamic moment with a global offering that truly puts clients first,” said Lord.
“We intentionally designed Horizon Global to usher in a new chapter of connected intelligence, innovation, and client value. Through the BluConverged Platform, and together with our teams and partners, we can now meet the growing demands for performance-based media models and drive enduring growth for the incredible brands we are privileged to represent,” Lord added.
