Execs & Accounts: AKQA, TBWAChiatDay, Crisp Wireless

AKQA goes to the New York City Ballet. AKQA was named the New York City Ballet’s digital agency of record. The agency will build a digital experience by focusing on a Web site redesign, an online ticketing and seating system, and increased brand experience through digital media.

Webisode series features Nissan 370Z. Advertising and movie production company Caviar and TBWAChiatDay, LA, created a six-part Webisode called “Takedown,” featuring the Nissan 370Z auto. Each episode is about four minutes long. Computer-generated animation car chases are programmed with software used in the Electronic Arts game, “Need for Speed.”

Crisp Wireless is powering Tampabay.com’s mobile site. The mobile site for “The St. Petersburg Times,” Tampabay.com, launches in time for Super Bowl XLIII, which takes place Feb. 1 in Tampa Bay. Crisp Wireless built and powers the site, and provides ad serving, campaign management, and creative services.

Epsilon named Bryan Kennedy CEO. Kennedy was previously Epsilon’s chief operating officer and president of its marketing technology group. Kennedy replaces outgoing CEO Michael Iccarino.

Seevast’s Pulse 360 and Comcast form distribution partnership. Pulse 360 will distribute its targeted sponsored link ads across Comcast.net’s portal, reaching over 15 million monthly unique visitors.

Digital engagement marketing agency Fanscape promoted staff in its Los Angeles office. Melissa Taylor was promoted to vice president, account management; she was the department’s senior director. Christy Wise was elevated to vice president, marketing; she was previously senior director. Michael Francesconi was given the role of director, social media marketing; he makes the move from senior manager. Ben Arnold was promoted to senior manager, digital promotions; he was formerly manager of digital promotions. Liza Patriana is now an account executive; her previous role was a coordinator.

AVP Pro Beach Volleyball selected Digitaria Sports as its digital marketing agency. AVP is Digitaria’s most recent client in its Digitaria Sports division. The work will include the design, development, and implementation of a new online destination for AVP.

LendingTree selected Alterian for content management. LendingTree.com relaunched its Web site and will use Alterian Content Management platform to manage its online marketplace.

Visionaire Group hired Matthew Lipson as vice president. Lipson will oversee the newly-formed creative solutions group, a division that will support the company’s strategic offerings for its partners.

Focus Media changed its senior management in Shanghai. The Shanghai, China-based multi-platform digital media company said Jason Jiang, executive chairman, will resume his position as chief executive officer to replace Tan Zhi. Zhi will continue as executive director. Alex Deyi Yang was appointed acting chief financial officer. Yang replaces Daniel Wu. Yang was previously general counsel of Linktone, and prior to that he was an attorney at Commerce & Finance law offices in Beijing.