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Matthew Anderson
Supporting non-profits, philanthropy and businesses working on climate, clean energy and equity.
Professional Background
Matthew Anderson is a dynamic leader and seasoned executive who has made significant contributions to the media and environmental sectors. As co-chair of AWA, he provides strategic executive leadership, helping to guide the direction of the organization toward impactful initiatives. At Lupa Systems, he plays a pivotal role in investing in and developing exceptional companies that not only shape the media landscape but also foster communities and support healthy social systems. His diverse portfolio reflects a commitment to innovation and strategic growth in vital areas.
Matthew's career reached a significant milestone in 2013 when he was appointed as Chief Marketing Officer at Roku. Under his leadership, the company transformed into America’s #1 streaming platform, achieving remarkable growth in market share and creating over $35 billion in shareholder value. His extensive responsibilities included overseeing all marketing, communications, and customer insights across Roku's various business units, including advertising, programming, content distribution, and a wide array of streaming devices and technologies. His innovative thinking contributed to Roku's successful Initial Public Offering (IPO) and helped shape its free TV strategy, leading to the launch of The Roku Channel and the creation of offerings such as "Featured Free" content.
In addition to bolstering corporate functions at Roku, Matthew played an instrumental role in promoting the company's advertising business, spearheading a strategic shift from traditional linear television towards connected TV platforms. His exceptional performance and visionary leadership earned him a place on Forbes and Business Insider's prestigious lists of the world's most innovative Chief Marketing Officers.
Before his successful tenure at Roku, Matthew served as a Strategic Advisor for the company, participating in corporate strategy and development initiatives which included fundraising and marketing support. His expertise also extended to advising 21st Century Fox regarding investments in significant entities such as MOBY Group and Team Sky.
Prior to his ventures in the tech space, Matthew held the title of Group Director of Strategy and Corporate Affairs for News Corporation in Europe and Asia. In this role, he managed branding, marketing, channel packaging, and corporate communications strategies within some of the world’s most competitive marketplaces, directly reporting to James Murdoch, the future CEO of 21st Century Fox. His contributions during this period significantly improved the performance of TV businesses while aligning them with corporate responsibility initiatives.
Before joining News Corporation, Matthew was Group Director of Communications and Brand Marketing at British Sky Broadcasting Plc (Sky). His strategic insight was invaluable as Sky entered new markets, launching broadband services, HDTV technology, and establishing itself as the world’s first carbon-neutral media company. His innovative strategies garnered accolades, including Management Today’s title of Britain’s Most Admired Company.
Matthew’s breadth of experience in public relations is reflected in his tenure as regional CEO of Ogilvy PR’s Asian and European networks, where he excelled in managing complex communications strategies across diverse markets. His commitment to excellence in branding and corporate communications has informed and elevated the standards within the industry.
Education and Achievements
Matthew Anderson holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Studies from Dartmouth College, where he developed a foundational understanding of ecological policy and sustainability that would influence his subsequent career direction. Additionally, he studied at Saint George's School, further shaping his educational background and leadership capabilities. His commitment to environmental sustainability was underscored when he was selected in 2004 by the World Economic Forum to join its Forum of Young Global Leaders, an acknowledgment of his potential to influence change.
In addition to his primary roles, Matthew has been actively involved in numerous environmental organizations, emphasizing his passion for sustainability. He has held various positions, including Vice President for Climate at the National Audubon Society, Executive Director at Audubon Minnesota, and Executive Director at the National Religious Partnership for the Environment. His leadership in these roles contributed significantly to raising awareness and promoting actionable solutions to environmental issues.
Moreover, he served as a past trustee of The Climate Group, treasurer of Malaria No More UK, and worked as a campaign coordinator for the Interfaith Climate and Energy Campaign at the National Council of Churches. These roles underscore his ongoing commitment to not only promoting environmental health but also addressing global humanitarian challenges.
Matthew's career is characterized by a blend of marketing prowess and a profound commitment to environmental issues. From his time as a campaigner at Greenpeace to his role as an organizer at Green Corps, he has consistently demonstrated a dedication to advocacy and community action, which continues to inform his professional journey today.
Achievements
Matthew Anderson’s achievements across various sectors are both extensive and impactful. Under his leadership at Roku, the company not only became a household name in streaming but also set a benchmark for innovation in advertising and content distribution. The launch of The Roku Channel and services like "Featured Free" have been game-changers in the industry, providing audiences with more accessible content while driving significant revenue growth for the company.
His recognized listing among the world’s most innovative CMOs by Forbes and Business Insider is a testament to his visionary approach to marketing, creativity, and corporate strategy. These accolades reflect his ability to foresee changes in consumer behavior and adapt business models accordingly, significantly contributing to the navigation of transitions in the media landscape.
Matthew's influence extends into environmental stewardship, where he has provided leadership that aligns media potential with ecological responsibility. His experience with corporate social responsibility at Sky and as a leader in various environmental organizations signals a dedicated alignment between corporate power and sustainability efforts. Matthew’s active participation in climate-related initiatives highlights his belief that companies can and should lead the charge in addressing pressing environmental challenges.
Overall, Matthew Anderson exemplifies a career marked by leadership, innovation, and a passionate commitment to shaping a better, more sustainable future. His exceptional blend of experience in corporate affairs, media strategy, and environmental advocacy positions him as a thought leader and influencer in both the tech and green industries.
