ProLink Solutions, a provider of Global Positioning Satellite golf-course management systems and on-course advertising, named Andy Batkin as CEO of its ProLink Media division. Batkin comes to ProLink from Innovative Media Solutions, LLC, where he was also CEO. Hes also the creator of the People vs. the Pros golf event, which was added to the PGA TOURs 2007 Challenge Event schedule, and the Trump Million Dollar Invitational. At ProLink, Batkin will utilize his extensive media experience to further strengthen the companys position as a leader in the growing digital out-of-home advertising channel through its cart-mounted GPS screens.
Prior to starting Innovative Media Solutions, Batkin founded Interactive Marketing, Inc. (IMI). In 1995, IMI became the Interactive Marketing Agency of Record for Yahoo, developing the branding and media plan to build the young company into an Internet powerhouse with a multi-billion dollar valuation. Batkin performed similar work for companies such as NBC, Netscape, Lycos and 24/7 Media, and created SuperBowl.com for the NFL.
“Andy Batkins accomplishments as a media strategist are extraordinary, and we are thrilled to welcome him to our executive team,” says Lawrence D. Bain, CEO of ProLink Solutions. “Andys expertise makes him uniquely qualified for this post as ProLink seeks to solidify its position as the leader in golf GPS advertising and a powerful and growing force in the digital out-of-home sector. Many major advertisers have recognized our program as a potent platform to reach the coveted golf demographic. Andys efforts will enhance ProLinks ability to attract important brands to our screens.”
“I am excited to help ProLink optimize its enormous potential as an ad medium,” Batkin says. “I see parallels with the early days of Yahoo in the opportunities to tap an existing and highly desirable audience. Leveraging that audience, offering advertisers a platform of proven ad effectiveness to reach this sought-after group, and adding value for ProLinks golf course partners are among the many goals I look forward to achieving.”
“As most industry analysts predict the digital out-of-home sector to be the second fastest growing segment next to Internet ad spending, ProLink is uniquely positioned to offer advertisers integrated marketing solutions that will provide measurable results,” Batkin adds.
Says Chris Wightman, President of ProLink Media: “Andy Batkin brings a remarkable track record of developing technology companies into successful media ventures through a mix of long-term strategy, real marketing solutions and industry leadership. Andys vision and creativity will drive ProLink to further capitalize on our high-level demographic and expansive reach in the digital outdoor space. I look forward to working with Andy and welcome him to the ProLink team.”
In the first quarter of 2007, ProLink secured more than $1 million in advertising commitments from General Motors, Citibank, RE/MAX, Toyota and other major companies. Brands that currently appear on or have used ProLinks more than 500 advertising-ready systems worldwide include Jaguar, Lexus, British Airways, HBO, Red Bull, Cadillac and Visa.
