New Leadership in the Social and Digital Arenas: A Fresh Start for Two Pioneers

January 16, 2025, 4:11 pm
Bain & Company
Bain & Company
AdTechAgencyAssistedFirmFutureITLocalManagementSocialTechnology
Location: United States, Massachusetts, Boston
Employees: 10001+
Founded date: 1973
The dawn of 2025 brings fresh leadership to two significant players in their respective fields: Social Ventures Australia (SVA) and iPromote. Each organization stands at a crossroads, ready to harness new energy and vision to tackle pressing challenges.

At SVA, James Toomey steps into the role of CEO, succeeding Suzie Riddell, who has led the organization for six transformative years. Toomey’s appointment is more than a change in leadership; it’s a signal of SVA’s commitment to innovation and impact in the social sector. With a career spanning four decades, Toomey brings a wealth of experience from both Australia and the UK. His journey began in law enforcement, but he quickly pivoted to focus on social issues, particularly child protection and youth justice.

Toomey’s tenure at Mission Australia, where he served as CEO, has equipped him with the tools to navigate the complexities of the social landscape. His involvement in initiatives like the Constellation Project and the End Street Sleeping Collaboration showcases his dedication to addressing homelessness and other pressing social issues. Under his leadership, SVA aims to challenge conventional thinking and push boundaries.

SVA has a rich history, established in 2002 through a collaboration of several organizations. In the past year alone, it consulted on over 260 projects, impacting more than 430,000 individuals facing disadvantage. Toomey’s vision aligns with this legacy, promising to drive better outcomes and foster collaboration.

Meanwhile, in the digital advertising realm, iPromote welcomes Mitchell Leiman as its new CEO. His arrival marks a pivotal moment for the company, which specializes in programmatic solutions for businesses of all sizes. Leiman’s extensive background in technology and digital marketing positions him as a formidable leader. With over two decades of experience, he has held key roles at Gannett, Cimpress/Vistaprint, and Constant Contact.

Leiman’s enthusiasm for iPromote’s mission is palpable. He sees immense potential in making digital advertising accessible and effective for all businesses. His leadership is expected to propel iPromote into a new era of growth and innovation. The company’s technology platform is already transforming how resellers assist their clients, and Leiman aims to build on this foundation.

The co-founder of iPromote, Jason Brown, expresses confidence in Leiman’s ability to drive the company forward. His vision aligns with iPromote’s commitment to delivering value to partners worldwide. As the digital landscape evolves, iPromote is poised to adapt and thrive under Leiman’s guidance.

Both Toomey and Leiman are stepping into roles that require not just leadership but a vision for the future. They face challenges that demand creativity and resilience. In the social sector, Toomey must navigate a landscape fraught with complex issues, from homelessness to child welfare. His experience will be crucial in forging partnerships and driving impactful initiatives.

On the other hand, Leiman enters a competitive digital advertising market. The industry is constantly changing, with new technologies and strategies emerging daily. His task is to ensure that iPromote remains at the forefront, providing innovative solutions that meet the needs of diverse clients.

The common thread between these two leaders is their commitment to making a difference. Toomey’s focus on social impact mirrors Leiman’s dedication to enhancing business success through technology. Both understand that leadership is not just about steering the ship; it’s about inspiring a crew to navigate uncharted waters.

As they embark on their respective journeys, the stakes are high. For SVA, the goal is to continue its legacy of impact while pushing the envelope on what’s possible in the social sector. For iPromote, the challenge lies in scaling operations and expanding market reach while maintaining a commitment to client success.

The new year is a blank canvas for both organizations. With fresh leadership at the helm, there’s a palpable sense of optimism. Toomey and Leiman are not just filling positions; they are igniting a spark of potential.

In conclusion, the transitions at SVA and iPromote are emblematic of a broader trend in leadership. Organizations are recognizing the need for innovative thinkers who can adapt to changing landscapes. As Toomey and Leiman take charge, they embody the spirit of progress. Their journeys will be closely watched, as the outcomes of their leadership will resonate far beyond their organizations.

The future is bright, and the possibilities are endless. With new leaders at the forefront, both SVA and iPromote are ready to make waves in their respective fields. The journey ahead promises to be as challenging as it is rewarding. The stage is set for transformation, and the world is eager to see what unfolds.