ViacomCBS Australia and New Zealand today announced the expansion of its sales team with the establishment of a new Independent Agencies and Direct Sales division.

The new division will be led by Ian Smith, who returned to ViacomCBS’s Network 10 last month after a five-year absence. Most recently he was general manager of trading and operations, national sales, at News Corp Australia.

Reporting to Network 10 national sales director Lisa Squillace, Ian will work closely with Sydney sales director Diane Ho and digital sales director Sophie Hicks Lloyd.

The Melbourne sales team has also been restructured, with the appointment of Adam Quick to the new role of head of independent agencies and direct sales, and John O’Brien to the new role of head of agency. Adam and John were previously Network 10 group sales managers in Melbourne.

ViacomCBS Australia and New Zealand chief sales officer, Rod Prosser, said: “The launch of the new Independent Agencies and Direct Sales division is a big step for us and our clients.

“It represents a significant investment and highlights the commitment of ViacomCBS to creating the best Sales team to deliver the best results for clients.

“The merger of the Network 10 and ViacomCBS sales departments on 1 May this year created one business that covers the best local and global brands, shows and events. Together, we offer marketers the power to engage and connect with people aged under 50 at every age and every stage,” he said.

As a result of the changes announced today, Damon Jackson is leaving Network 10. Damon has been with the network for almost six years and was appointed Melbourne sales director in September 2018.

Today’s announcement comes 18 months after Network 10 re-established its in-house sales team. Since then, the network has seen strong revenue share growth and won several agency awards.