WAN-IFRA’s new C-Day creates a global forum for media leadership and future-focused dialogue
Just like CMA – CMA Media is WAN-IFRA’s Congress partner in Marseille – created this center to foster innovation and shape the future of sustainable transport and logistics, C-Day was created to foster frank exchange on the burning issues reshaping journalism, audiences, and revenue.
More than 60 CEOs as well as a stellar lineup of speakers convened at the impressive TANGRAM Center for a full day of knowledge sharing and networking.
Rasmus Kleis Nielsen provides context for C-Day’s participants
C-Day was moderated and synthesized by Rasmus Kleis Nielsen, Professor of Communication at the University of Copenhagen and Senior Research Associate at the Reuters Institute of Oxford University. Ezra Eeman, Strategy and Innovation Director at NPO, the Dutch Public Broadcaster, who also leads the WAN-IFRA AI in Media initiative, led and moderated the AI sessions during the day.
The Chatham House rules progamme featured a number of presentations, interviews, and deep discussions on trend intelligence, AI strategy, platform dynamics, subscription innovation, the creator economy and publisher case studies – all with the goal of turning complexity into strategic clarity for senior leaders.
Executives had a chance to share their opportunities and challenges in this intimate, open setting. And they were challenged by Nielsen to rethink some of the sour notions surround the industry. Redefining trust by brand building. Rethinking “techlash” vs. tech ambivalence. Reconnecting to audiences through direct relationships. Building bridges to creators – internally and externally. Taking a good look at their business models. Don’t just brace for the agentic model, work on it.
And so much more was “on the table.”
As Ladina Heimgartner, WAN-IFRA’s President and Head of Media & CEO of Ringier Switzerland, said in her closing remarks.
“We have heard enough today that I have a healthy amount of paranoia and a healthy amount of confidence.”
