SMG appoints former Boots exec Ollie Shayer as Senior Director of Global Strategy and Innovation

SMG, a retail media specialist, has announced the appointment of Ollie Shayer as Senior Director of Global Strategy and Innovation.

His decision to join SMG stems from “the company’s dynamic approach to media, technology and AI, which align with his passion for market leading innovation.

He will lead the development of future focused capabilities across media amd insight, AI, and new to market propositions, identifying new growth opportunities and developing innovative strategies for retailers, brands and agencies.

As Omni-Media Director at Boots, Shayer helped shape and grow Boots Media Group (BMG) in partnership with SMG. He says: “The media landscape is entering a period of accelerated disruption, and SMG is exceptionally well positioned to drive change.”

“By harnessing the power of data driven insights, a deep understanding of consumer behaviour, and the integration of technology, we will unlock new opportunities and set new standards in commerce media. I look forward to driving SMG’s continued leadership in this evolving space.”

SMG operates retail media networks for UK and US retailers like Boots, Morrisons, Co-op, Asda, The Very Group, and WHSmith North America - and, most recently, launched Deliveroo Media, connecting brands to high intent consumers across restaurant, grocery, and retail moments.

Through its buy-side agency, Capture, it manages national retail media campaigns for brands including pladis, Taylors of Harrogate and McCain.

“A key attraction for me is the cultural strength of SMG which I have witnessed first-hand,” says Shayer. “The opportunity to work alongside such a brilliant team and contribute to an exciting period of growth and transformation made this an easy decision. Retail media has moved beyond a niche, and SMG is proud to be leading its evolution.”

Sam Knights, CEO at SMG, says: “Ollie brings with him a wealth of experience in media and retail, and a strategic vision that will drive SMG’s global growth. He is one of the thought leaders in retail media globally and will play a crucial role in helping SMG further its position as the industry leader in commerce media”.

2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

Retail media networks will be a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.

The awards, which are now open for entries, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Our 2024 hall of fame entrants were revealed during an event which took place at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London on 21st November, and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by comedian Lucy Porter.

In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “The event is now into its sixth year and what a journey it has been. The awards started life as an online only affair during the Covid outbreak, before launching as a small scale in real life event and growing year on year to the point where we’re now selling out this fine, historic venue.”

He added: “Congratulations to all of our finalists. Many submissions did not make it through to the final stage, and getting to this point is no mean feat. Checkout-free stores, automated supply chains, immersive experiences, on-demand delivery, next generation loyalty offerings, inclusive retail, green technology. We’ve got all the cool stuff covered this evening.”

“But just importantly we’ve got lots of great examples of companies taking innovative tech and making it usable in everyday operations - resulting in more efficiency and profitability in all areas.”

Congratulations to our 2024 winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Lucy Porter, and all those who attended November's gathering. 

For further information on the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards, please fill in the below form and we will get back to you asap.