Nielsen to Separate into Two Leading Global Companies

Nielsen Holdings announced the completion of its strategic review and plan to spin off the company’s Global Connect business, creating two independent, publicly traded companies— the Global Media business and the Global Connect business—each of which will have sharper strategic focus and greater opportunity to leverage its unique competitive advantages.

Leading the review was James Attwood, chairman of Nielsen’s board of directors. “Nielsen has two strong and global franchises: Global Media and Global Connect,” he said. “Following an extensive review process, which included an in-depth analysis of our businesses, strategies and market opportunities, the board concluded that separating into two independent, publicly traded companies is the best path to position each business for long term success and maximize value creation. As independent companies, both Nielsen—the Global Media business—and the new company consisting of Global Connect will enjoy added flexibility and further strengthen their paths toward a new phase of growth, productivity and industry leadership.”

According to media reports, the split will allow the company to better serve their specific clients. Once the separation is complete, David Kennedy will assume the role of CEO of Global Media. The company stated the search has begun for a CEO of Global Connect.