Jodie Sangster

Global Head of Data & Identity at GroupM

Sangster is known for championing responsible data use and privacy-first marketing practices, and for her leadership in shaping data governance standards across both the Australian market and global advertising industry.

Standards SetterSydney, New South Wales, Australia18+ years in industry

Last updated May 30, 2026 by the ATDb Editorial Team

Bio

Jodie Sangster is a globally recognized leader in data strategy, identity resolution, and privacy-compliant marketing, currently serving as Global Head of Data & Identity at GroupM, the world's largest media investment group. In this role, she shapes how one of advertising's most powerful organizations approaches data governance, first-party data strategy, and the post-cookie identity landscape across its global network of agencies including Mindshare, Wavemaker, and EssenceMediacom. Sangster built her reputation over more than a decade as CEO of ADMA (Association for Data-driven Marketing & Advertising) in Australia, where she became a defining force in shaping industry standards around data ethics, consumer privacy, and marketing technology adoption. Under her leadership, ADMA became a leading voice in advocating for responsible data practices and helped shape Australia's evolving privacy regulatory framework. She is widely credited with elevating the conversation around data governance from a compliance checkbox to a strategic business imperative. A sought-after speaker and thought leader, Sangster has represented the advertising and marketing industry at government consultations, international conferences, and cross-industry working groups. Her expertise spans the full spectrum of data-driven marketing — from technical identity solutions and clean rooms to regulatory compliance and consumer trust — making her one of the few executives who can credibly bridge the gap between policy, technology, and commercial strategy.

Previous Roles

CEO

ADMA (Association for Data-driven Marketing & Advertising) (2011-2020)

CEO

IAPA (International Association of Privacy Professionals Australia) (2016-2020)

Head of Legal & Compliance

Acxiom Australia (2005-2011)

Expertise

Data GovernanceIdentity ResolutionPrivacy RegulationFirst-Party Data StrategyData Clean RoomsProgrammatic AdvertisingMarketing TechnologyResponsible Data Use

Education

LLB (Bachelor of Laws), University of Sheffield

Notable Achievements

Led ADMA for nearly a decade, transforming it into Australia's premier data-driven marketing industry body
Played a key role in shaping Australia's Privacy Act reform discussions and industry self-regulatory frameworks
Appointed Global Head of Data & Identity at GroupM, overseeing data strategy across the world's largest media investment group
Co-founded and led the IAPA, expanding privacy professional development across the Asia-Pacific region

Awards

B&T Women in Media — Industry Leader recognitionAdNews Top 50 Most Influential People in Australian Advertising

Speaking Topics

The future of identity in a cookieless worldResponsible data use and consumer trustPrivacy regulation and its impact on advertisingFirst-party data strategy for marketersData clean rooms and privacy-enhancing technologiesAI and data ethics in marketing

Publications

Regular contributor to ADMA thought leadership reports on data-driven marketing and privacy
Quoted extensively in industry press including AdNews, Campaign Asia, and The Drum on data governance topics

Board Memberships

ADMA (Association for Data-driven Marketing & Advertising)IAPA (International Association of Privacy Professionals Australia)

Connections