AdLarge appoints industry veteran Nicole Leyden to accelerate strategic brand partnerships

AdLarge today announced the appointment of Nicole Pezzola Leyden as Vice President, Brand Partnerships. In this role, Leyden will focus on developing strategic sponsorship opportunities and integrated marketing programs for advertisers across AdLarge and the fwd. network, with a concentration on the automotive, financial services, and emerging advertising categories.

As advertisers increasingly seek customized, cross-platform programs that go beyond traditional media buys, AdLarge continues to expand its integrated sponsorship offerings across podcasts, streaming audio, video, social, live experiences, newsletters, and creator-led content. Leyden’s appointment further strengthens the company’s position as a trusted partner for brands looking to connect with premium content and highly engaged audiences through strategic, results-driven partnerships.

Leyden brings more than two decades of experience developing strategic partnerships and driving revenue growth for some of the world’s most respected media and entertainment brands, including TED, Scripps Networks, Discovery, and the NHL. Throughout her career, Leyden has specialized in developing high-value sponsorships and integrated marketing programs that connect brands with consumers across digital media, live events, premium content, and multi-platform experiences.

During her tenure at TED, Leyden secured new partnerships with brands including Verizon, Facebook/Meta, Bose, Toyota, Ford, Honda/Acura, Intuit, JPMorgan, and Charles Schwab. Her custom podcast partnership with Morgan Stanley earned industry recognition in back-to-back years. She developed integrated marketing programs spanning TED Conferences, experiential activations, digital media, OTT, podcasts, social campaigns, and custom content.

Previously, Leyden held leadership roles at Scripps Networks Interactive, where she led revenue growth and monetization across the company’s digital portfolio, including owned-and-operated properties, mobile, premium video, VOD, and TV Everywhere platforms. During her tenure, she led award-winning sales teams, and pioneered General Motors’ first large-scale lifestyle branded content initiative, which earned an Emmy Award.

“AdLarge and the fwd. network have built one of the strongest portfolios of premium content, creators, and advertising opportunities in the industry, creating an incredible foundation for brands looking to engage audiences in authentic ways,” said David Cohn, Chief Revenue Officer of AdLarge and the fwd. network. “Nicole has an outstanding reputation for developing innovative sponsorships that deliver real value for advertisers. She knows how to connect brands with the right content, the right creators, and the right audiences, and we’re thrilled to have someone with her experience and relationships joining our team.”

“The most successful partnerships are the ones that create value for everyone involved; brands, creators, and audiences,” said Leyden. “That’s what AdLarge and the fwd. network do so well. I’m excited to join the team and help advertisers develop integrated sponsorships that bring those connections to life.”

In addition to her work in media, Leyden is a Founding Member and Head of Impact Partnerships for Women Applying AI, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping women develop the skills and confidence to lead in an AI-driven world. She has played a key role in developing partnership strategies, expanding outreach initiatives, and securing funding to support the organization’s continued growth.

Nicole can be reached at nicolel@adlarge.com