Google South Africa has announced the appointment of a new country manager to run its local operation in Johannesburg. Stephen Newton, former Google Head of Analytics & Commerce for Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA), brings extensive online experience to his new role, helping to increase the flow of information in South Africa by getting businesses online and helping South Africans benefit from Google’s free online services. Newton will take up his position on the 1st of July 2009.
"It’s an exciting time here, with the 2010 World Cup just around the corner" says Newton. "South Africa is the continent’s Internet and e-commerce hub, and the coming years promise significant growth for small businesses wanting to benefit from increased connectivity. Google remains excited about improving access to information for local South African users, and bringing our learnings in search and advertising from around the world to Africa’s entrepreneurial heart."
Newton is an accomplished business leader who has spent nearly a decade working in the online space, where he has been responsible for growing and leading top on-line companies. Before joining Google, Newton was Vice President of Double Click’s Ad Exchange and General Manager of Hitwise UK Ltd.
