Essence parts ways with Japan head

Daizo Nishitani has left his position as managing director of Essence Digital Japan just over a year after joining the company.

Essence, a digital media agency that is part of GroupM, appointed Nishitani to lead Japan operations last May. Japan is a key market for the company in revenue terms.

A representative from Essence did not comment on the reason for Nishitani’s departure or interim leadership plans. The spokesperson said: “Daizo contributed greatly to Essence’s successes in the Japan market. While we ultimately parted ways, we wish him the best in his future endeavours.”

Nishitani joined Essence from Apple, where he was in charge of iAd, a mobile advertising platform that was discontinued a year ago.

Essence has been active in Tokyo since 2014 and is led regionally by Kyoko Matsushita, who is also based in Tokyo.