14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft’s Windows Phone Marketing has got a new corporate vice president, none other than Thom Gruhler, the Redmond-based software giant announced recently.
Gruhler, 42, comes to Microsoft from McCann Worldgroup, where he was global managing partner of Telecom & Technology. In this position, he was in charge of driving growth and creating relationships with telecomm and technology brands globally.
He had also served as the global leader of McCann’s Verizon business for eight years, and led the development of the iconic “Can you hear me now?” campaign, helping Verizon experience tremendous growth.
“Thom brings deep experience in the telecommunications industry, exceptional creativity and a proven track record of creating campaigns that connect with consumers,” said Terry Myerson, corporate vice president of the Windows Phone Division at Microsoft.
“Windows Phone is a uniquely compelling product, and Thom will help us bring that to life for our customers.”
Before joining McCann, Gruhler was manager for global brands such as Barclays, DaimlerChrysler, HP, Hilton and Salomon Smith Barney at other agencies from the Interpublic Group.
At Microsoft, Gruhler will be the leader of all advertising, marketing and communications activities for the Windows Phone Division.
Moreover, he will work with product engineering teams and telecommunications partners to raise awareness in Windows Phone and drive consumer demand upwards (for Windows Phone devices, software and services).
“I’m excited to be joining an outstanding team at Windows Phone that has built an amazing product, which is starting to turn heads in a very competitive market,” Gruhler said.
“When you put a Windows Phone into someone’s hands they love it, which is the ideal place to start as a marketer. I’m looking forward to working with the team to build consumer awareness and excitement for Windows Phone products and the overall brand.”
Microsoft is confident that its Windows Phone will manage to gain a top three position on the smartphone market in the near future. For that, the company has partnered with leading handset vendors, including Nokia, HTC, LG, Samsung, ZTE, and more.