James Murdoch and Sir Martin Sorrell to share stage at Cannes

James Murdoch and Sir Martin Sorrell are set to share the stage at Cannes Lions 2011. Organisers have confirmed that Murdoch, chairman and chief executive, Europe and Asia, News Corporation, will be joining Sir Martin Sorrell, chief executive, WPP, in conversation at the 58th Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity on June 24, 2011.

Murdoch is expected to address innovation in digital television platforms, transformation of the journalism business, new opportunities for creativity and storytelling, and the pursuit of growth in underserved markets around the world.

Terry Savage, chairman, Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, said, "We are delighted to have secured two such passionate champions of innovation for this year's Festival. James Murdoch and Sir Martin Sorrell have both, in their own ways, dared to challenge convention, reshaping the industry and developing businesses that are large employers of creative talent. With their support, Cannes Lions 2011 looks forward to contributing to the global debate on creativity in today's digital era."

Murdoch took over the post in 2007, with responsibility for the strategic and operational development of News Corporation’s television, newspaper and related digital assets in Europe, Asia and the Middle East. He is also chairman of the UK pay TV operator BSkyB where he served as chief executive from 2003 to 2007. 

He was previously chairman and chief executive officer of STAR, News Corporation’s Asian broadcast operations. Murdoch also serves as a Non-Executive Director of GlaxoSmithKline plc and Sotheby’s. He is also a member of The Leadership Council of The Climate Group and under his leadership BSkyB claims to be the world’s first carbon neutral media company.