IAB Europe Appointed Sonia Carreno as CEO
The IAB Europe board of directors selected Sonia Carreno to succeed long-time leader Townsend Feehan.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in People
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IAB Europe has announced the appointment of Sonia Carreno as its new chief executive officer. She will replace outgoing CEO Townsend Feehan, who served in the role for 12 years.
Why it matters
The leadership change marks a significant transition for the trade association as it looks to leverage Carreno's extensive background in the digital advertising sector. The appointment follows a decision by the board of directors to guide the organization into its next phase of operations.
Sonia Carreno brings over 20 years of digital advertising experience to her new role, having led IAB Canada since 2015. The Canadian organization currently represents a membership base of more than 250 entities.
The players
Sonia Carreno
She is the incoming chief executive officer of IAB Europe who previously served as president of IAB Canada since 2015.
Townsend Feehan
She is the outgoing chief executive officer of IAB Europe who concluded a 12-year tenure leading the organization.
IAB Europe
It is the European-level trade association representing the digital advertising and marketing ecosystem.
IAB Canada
It is the Canadian trade association representing over 250 members across the digital advertising industry.
The details
The board of directors of IAB Europe elected Carreno to oversee the trade association as it navigates the evolving digital advertising landscape. The transition will officially take place next quarter as Feehan steps down from the post.
Timeline
Sonia Carreno began her tenure as president of IAB Canada in 2015.
IAB Europe announced the appointment on September 23, 2026.
The leadership transition to the CEO role will occur in the fourth quarter of 2026.
Market Landscape
This leadership transition occurs as IAB Europe continues to influence global digital advertising standards and policy frameworks. The appointment positions the organization to potentially recalibrate its strategic approach to these established industry regulations under new guidance.
For member companies and industry partners, this change may signal shifts in association priorities or engagement strategies regarding digital advertising policies. Stakeholders should monitor upcoming communications for potential changes to advocacy or standard-setting programs.
The takeaway
The appointment of an experienced regional leader to a continental post reflects a broader trend of cross-pollinating executive talent to address global digital challenges. Industry observers should look to the new CEO's previous Canadian track record for potential indicators of future European policy directions.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest leadership changes across the industry in our People section.
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