Sean Finnegan, U.S. Director and Global Coordinator OMD DIGITAL, NEW YORK

Sean Finnegan has seen it all when it comes to digital communications. He lived through—and survived—the crazy days before the bubble burst, figured out how to make the transition to normalcy when the explosion did take place, and has capitalized on his traditional media planning skills to bring order and strong  business practices to new-media organizations. He takes a very practical approach to the changes that have turned the advertising and media world topsy-turvy. He says in a flattening world as technology continues to break down barriers and borders,“we are increasingly able to communicate product messaging across multiple global markets in an innovative manner: succinctly, with permission, and (with) localized relevance.” He is recognized for his ability to see everything from the big picture down to the day-to-day details and come up with new ways to reach today’s ever-changing audiences.As the leader of OMD Digital, he oversees a department of more than 150 new media experts across the country.When he was named a Media All-Star by Mediaweek last year and was asked what lies ahead, he said,“This is a formidable industry. If you can dream it, and there is a budget behind it, you can build it, still to this day.”