Brad Berens

Brad Berens is a veteran digital strategist and thought leader best known for bridging the gap between complex digital and advertising technology trends and practical business strategy. As Chief Strategy Officer at the Center for the Digital Future at USC Annenberg, he conducts research and publishes analysis on how digital transformation reshapes media, marketing, and consumer behavior — giving brands, agencies, and platforms an academic yet actionable lens on industry change. Berens built his reputation across more than two decades working at the intersection of content, strategy, and advertising technology. He served as Chief Content Officer at iMedia Connection, a leading trade publication for digital marketing professionals, where he shaped editorial direction and became a recognized voice in the AdTech community. He also held senior strategy roles at major agency networks including Dentsu and Razorfish, advising brands on digital transformation, media strategy, and emerging technology adoption. Known for his ability to synthesize research into compelling narratives, Berens is a frequent speaker at industry conferences and a prolific writer on topics ranging from programmatic advertising and identity to the future of commerce and media. His dual background in agency practice and academic research makes him a distinctive figure in AdTech — equally comfortable advising a CMO or presenting findings at a scholarly symposium.

• Served as Chief Content Officer at iMedia Connection, shaping digital marketing editorial for a major industry trade publication over multiple years
• Appointed Chief Strategy Officer at the Center for the Digital Future at USC Annenberg, one of the leading academic research centers focused on digital media and society
• Advised numerous major brands and agencies on digital transformation strategy across a 25+ year career

• Regular contributor and columnist at iMedia Connection
• Research publications and reports via Center for the Digital Future at USC Annenberg