NOVA Entertainment has recruited Esther Carlsen as its new Digital Commercial Director, a move which follows the hiring of Nicole Bence as Chief Commercial Officer last year.

Carlsen, who boasts over two decades of experience in the digital and ad tech industry, will be tasked with driving momentum for NOVA Entertainment's live and on-demand digital audio offerings. Carlsen's career includes roles at Yahoo?!, ninemsn, Group M's Xaxis, Axciom and Bench. More recently, Carlsen worked as Commercial Director for Nine Digital Audio. She will be based in NOVA Entertainment's Sydney and Warane offices.

"Audio is the fastest growing digital media in Australia and there are few executives better placed than Esther to capitalise on that opportunity. I'm confident she'll play a critical role in continuing to drive the transformation and adoption necessary for us to lead the market," said Bence.

Carlsen said she's excited to be joining the NOVA team at such a point in the media company's transformation, to become an all of audio business.

"After learning of the company's vision, I believe my experience across both the buy and sell side will enable me to help clients unlock the full value of the growing audiences across the network," Carlsen stated.

Bence believed Carlsen's appointment is crucial in bridging the gap between the share of audience audio currently represents, and the share of investment advertisers are committing to it.

"Esther's appointment is critical to helping us close that gap, to the direct benefit of our clients and partners who we believe will become advocates for the positive campaign performance that audio - and specifically NOVA Entertainment - can deliver them."