Ruth Fitzsimons, former managing director of Podfront UK, has joined the team at audio production company Voiceworks as head of international.
With this role, Fitzsimon’s responsibilities will include leading Voiceworks and the Sport Social Podcast Network’s global strategy by growing its relationships in new markets and signing with more commercial partners, rights holders, and publishers. Sport Social expanded its footprint in the US and Australian markets in August this year by signing with two global partners - BlueWire and ARN - and plans to continue growing its presence internationally.
Fitzsimons is considered a veteran in the podcasting industry, having launched and established Podfront UK - a joint venture between SXM company Stitcher and Wondery - in 2019 and led its content strategy, as well as securing partnerships with international podcast platforms such as Sport Social, NPR, Bauer Media Ireland, and others. Prior to working for Podfront, Fitzsimon served as senior vice president of operations and global head of content at Audioboom for nearly five years.
“I have been fascinated to watch the growth of Voiceworks Sport and Sport Social over the last two years,” said Fitzsimons. “The business offers a truly unique content and commercial offering to the premium sporting world. In a highly competitive market, I’m looking forward to bringing this innovative approach to new markets in Europe and beyond.”
“Having worked with the Sport Social team previously in my role at Podfront UK, I’m delighted to now be joining this strategic and dynamic team who are focused on ensuring growth for their content partners.”
As part of Voiceworks Sport’s plans to expand its network, the audio company also appointed Chloe Yates, former Sony Music Entertainment senior account manager, as account director to grow the company’s advertising revenue and partnerships with talent through media agencies and clients. In May this year, Voiceworks also welcomed Laura Davies, former Bauer content and operations coordinator, to the team as podcast relationship manager.
“It’s a real testament to our recent growth and successes that we can attract such high calibre people to join the team,” said Voiceworks Sport managing director Sophie Hind. “Ruth, Chloe, and Laura are all fantastic additions to the business and will be invaluable in helping us continue to develop and grow.”
“Their collective experience will be particularly key in forging relationships with key brands, shows and advertisers as we look to enter new markets. We're excited to welcome them to the team.”
