IAC Plans “Online Destination” For “Black Community”; Promotes SVP-HR To Head Project
By Staci D. Kramer - Wed 18 Apr 2007 11:13 AM PST
IAC added to its programming plans today with the announcement that it would launch an “online destination for the Black community featuring topical content, relevant services and a platform for community interaction.” That’s Black instead of African-American since the site is meant to attract blacks from Africa, LatAm and the Caribbean as well. The site, planned for a January 2008 launch, is the second initiative announced recently by IAC Programming, which is headed by Michael Jackson; the company also has a JV with Dow Jones for a personal finance site.
The CEO appointed to head the project is Johnnie C. Taylor, who has been IAC’s SVP-HR for the past year; he has a long resume in human resources and has held a number of other executive positions at companies including Viacom. He won’t be working in the nifty new Gehry HQ, though—the still-unnamed site will be based in Charlotte, N.C.
WSJ had the story last night and points out the major competition: AOL Black Voices, BlackPlanet.com. Also this comment from IAC chairmand and CEO Barry Diller: “This is a rich area and a great opportunity ... Our brands cover a good part of the waterfront...and can be adapted for this audience specifically.”
Posted in: Companies, IACI, Social Media, Community
