X appoints former Verizon executive as global head of advertising innovation
Two key appointments at X announced during CES 2025, with John Nitti leading advertising innovation and data strategies.
In a strategic move announced during CES 2025, X has appointed John Nitti as Global Head of Advertising Innovation. The announcement came on January 9, 2025, through a statement by CEO Linda Yaccarino on the social media platform.
According to Nitti's professional background, he brings over two decades of experience in telecom, financial services, media, sports, and entertainment industries. Prior to joining X, Nitti held several senior positions at Verizon between 2015 and 2024, including SVP and Chief Media Officer, where he managed investments exceeding $25 billion and led a team of more than 250 professionals.
During his tenure at Verizon, Nitti focused on identifying and maximizing growth opportunities, particularly in emerging technologies such as Cloud Solutions, Satellite, Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things, Content Distribution, and Sports & Entertainment partnerships. His most recent role at Verizon was SVP of Strategic Partnerships and New Business Development.
The appointment aligns with X's focus on technological advancement in advertising. According to Yaccarino's announcement, Nitti will guide the platform's partnerships, with particular emphasis on data and programmatic offerings. The timing of the announcement during CES, the world's largest consumer electronics show, underscores X's commitment to technological innovation in advertising.
In addition to Nitti's appointment, X also announced Romina Khananisho as the new Head of Global Government Affairs. The dual announcement reflects X's strategic focus on both commercial growth and regulatory engagement.
Before his nine-year tenure at Verizon, Nitti held significant positions in the media industry. At ZenithOptimedia Group, he served as President of Activation and Chief Investment Officer, overseeing media investments and digital offerings. His experience also includes a six-year stint at American Express, where he managed over $350 million in annual advertising and sponsorship investments.
Nitti's industry recognition includes being named "Advertising People of the Year" by The Advertising Club of New York in 2022, while at Verizon. In 2015, he received the "Distinguished Citizenship Award" from the John A. Reisenbach Foundation for his contributions to public service and community leadership.
His educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Marketing and Finance from Wagner College. Beyond his corporate roles, Nitti has demonstrated commitment to community service, notably co-founding "Madison Avenue Rebuilds Staten Island" in 2012, which raised over $270,000 for Hurricane Sandy relief efforts.
The appointment comes at a time when digital advertising platforms face increasing demands for innovation in data utilization and programmatic advertising. According to his LinkedIn profile, Nitti's responsibilities at X will include developing and executing comprehensive advertising innovation strategies aligned with business objectives and market trends.
Throughout his career, Nitti has maintained involvement with industry organizations. He served on the SeeHer Leadership Council of the Association of National Advertisers (ANA) and was a board member of the 5G Future Forum (5GFF), contributing to the development of global Mobile Edge Computing ecosystems.
This strategic hire represents X's latest move in strengthening its advertising capabilities as digital platforms continue to evolve their revenue models and technological capabilities. The focus on data and programmatic offerings suggests X's intention to enhance its advertising technology infrastructure and capabilities in an increasingly competitive digital advertising landscape.