Execs and Accounts for January 10, 2003

Overture has named Ken Ross chief communications officer. In the role, Ross will lead the search engine marketer’s corporate communications group, overseeing public and investor relations and internal communications.

Ross most recently served as VP of corporate communications for consumer products maker Newell Rubbermaid, where he was responsible for internal and external communications strategies. Earlier, he was senior VP of communications for Internet retailer eToys and worldwide director of media and analyst relations for Andersen Consulting.

Ross succeeds Kasey Byrne, who joined Overture in May 1999 and is leaving to pursue personal interests.

Margeotes/Fertitta + Partners (M/F+P) has hired Brandon Lowitz as director of new business development. Prior to joining the cross-media agency, Lowitz was director of new business development at boutique agency Blue Elephant. He also served as director of business development at Dennis Interactive and as an account executive in the ad sales department of Ziff Davis Publishing.

“We’ve known Brandon for many years and have been impressed by his entrepreneurial spirit, determination, and skill,” said George Fertitta, the agency’s co-founder and president.

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