Mobile video marketing platform AdColony has recruited Somo stalwart Andrew French to lead its Europe and Middle east expansion plans as GM EMEA, based out of London.

French was Somo’s second employee and built out the company’s international client list and Global Trading division, working with more than 250 partners to ensure efficient and effective media spend and results. In his new role at AdColony, he will provide support and strategic account management for top mobile publishers and advertisers in the EMEA region.

Speaking to Mobile Marketing, French said he had been attracted to AdColony by the opportunity to put into practice some of the things he had learned at Somo.

“I had been at Somo for five years and learned a huge amount working with Nick, Carl and Thomas. This is a chance for me to shape something from the start and create a business and a culture from the ground up. The timing just seemed right, especially with the trend in video becoming so big and AdColony having, in my opinion, the best products in the market.”

Joining French at the company is Stefan Adamczyk, sales director for EMEA, based out of Paris, France. Formerly of Adloqi and Mobile Ventures, Adamczyk has lots of experience working with brands and agencies to deliver successful mobile advertising campaigns.

AdColony works with brands and publishers looking to engage consumers on mobile with high impact high definition mobile video. Its Instant-Play HD technology has been developed and refined for brands and performance advertisers to reach consumers through in-app video advertising.