Russell Wagner brings an extensive 12 years of digital experience to any conversation with a focus in programmatic as a media channel. He has an innate passion to understand the mechanisms of digital advertising and transforms data points into bottom-line business growth.
Graduating with a B.S. in Mass Communications from St John’s University, Russell began a career in what was then a brand-new digital channel known as programmatic media in 2009. Initially taking an entry level position with a mid-size search marketing firm Didit in New York City, he became an integral part of an expanding programmatic team, a first for the agency. Russell has since found himself in a position to make the most of situations within every agency where he has been employed. For example, starting a self-serve activation team at his second agency, Generator Media, and capturing an opportunity to involve Charlotte in the national efforts of Omnicom’s Center of Excellence. Currently this is where Russell evaluates strategic media partnerships and develops standard operating procedures for a community of hundreds of programmatic traders.
From the onset of Russell’s career, he has embraced the hands-on approach required to successfully put media into market for multi-million-dollar investments. His career to date has spanned many advertising verticals mainly, finance, insurance, education, retail, auto, travel, and entertainment. With a litany of technology providers across the industry, he leverages his knowledge and skill to evaluate the propensity of a partner’s product.
It would be remiss not to mention Russell’s management experience which is a source of self-pride. He leads with a people-first approach in developing customized career pathing advice for every employee. What started as a small team of 2 at Generator Media some years ago has morphed into a more than 20 employee team with Omnicom Media Group. Guiding their knowledge as they approach digital maturity is a process he is devoted to.
Answering the complexities of digital advertising requires an extensive background in the field to produce repeatable success stories. He has personally transformed programmatic strategy for the likes of Hyatt Hotels, Synchrony Financial, United Explorer Credit Cards and more. Russell is looking forward to embracing his latest challenge as Resolution’s Programmatic Craft Lead.
Russell is a father of two beautiful daughters (ages 4 and 6), husband to a supportive wife and proud owner of a rescue pup. He resides in Matthews and in his spare time has a passion for music production, distance running, movies of all genres, casual gaming and being active.