IAB Europe Appointed Sonia Carreno as CEO
The trade association selected the longtime IAB Canada president to lead its digital advertising efforts starting next quarter.
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, succeeding Townsend Feehan after a 12-year tenure. The leadership transition for the digital advertising trade association is scheduled to take place in the fourth quarter of 2026.
Why it matters
The change in leadership signals a transition for the organization as it oversees digital advertising standards across Europe. Operators in the digital ad space should watch for potential policy shifts as the board of directors moves to integrate Carreno's perspective.
Sonia Carreno brings over 20 years of experience to the role, having led IAB Canada since 2015 where she oversaw a membership of more than 250 organizations. This change concludes the 12-year tenure of outgoing CEO Townsend Feehan.
The players
Sonia Carreno
Incoming chief executive officer of IAB Europe with over two decades of digital advertising expertise.
Townsend Feehan
Outgoing chief executive officer of IAB Europe who led the association for 12 years.
IAB Europe
A major trade association representing the digital advertising and marketing industry across the European market.
IAB Canada
A trade association representing over 250 members within the Canadian digital advertising sector.
The details
Carreno was elected by the board of directors to succeed the outgoing CEO, Townsend Feehan. She is transitioning from her current role as president of IAB Canada, a position she has held for over a decade. The handover is slated to occur in the final quarter of 2026, marking a new phase for the European trade body.
Timeline
Sonia Carreno began her tenure as president of IAB Canada in 2015.
IAB Europe announced the appointment of Sonia Carreno on September 23, 2026.
The leadership transition to the CEO role is scheduled for Q4 2026.
Market Landscape
The leadership change marks a conclusion to the 12-year tenure of Townsend Feehan, setting the stage for a new administrative direction at the trade body. This appointment follows a broader pattern of regional IAB chapters elevating experienced leaders to oversee increasingly complex digital policy frameworks.
Businesses operating within the European digital advertising ecosystem should monitor the upcoming Q4 transition for any changes in advocacy priorities or standards. Review current compliance requirements to ensure readiness for potential shifts in policy focus under the new executive leadership.
The takeaway
The transition at IAB Europe signifies a pivot in leadership for the continent's digital advertising standards. Operators should track the official Q4 turnover and any subsequent adjustments in association-led regulatory engagement.
What happens next
The transition process will finalize in Q4 2026.
Further reading
For more information on leadership shifts within the industry, visit People.
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