One Plus One appoints Damien Venuto to senior role

AUCKLAND, Today: Independent communications agency Once Plus One has appointed journalist Damien Venuto to the role of senior account director, starting in January 2024.

Most recently the host of the New Zealand Herald’s Front Page Podcast, which he and his team grew to a cumulative audience exceeding two million, Venuto has spent the past six years at the Herald, with four spent as online business editor.

Prior to that, Venuto spent four years at Tangible Media, most recently as Editor of NZ Marketing Magazine and StopPress.

One Plus One MD Kelly Bennett said: “Readers of his Herald columns and past work in the trade press will be well aware of Venuto’s keen insight into the world of communications and marketing, and his ability to simplify the complex in service of a great story.

“His unique trajectory is part of what makes Venuto such an exciting addition to the growing team.

“I’ve known Damien professionally for the better part of a decade now, across the aisle in his role as a journalist, and I’ve always been struck by his curiosity, professionalism and smarts.

“I feel incredibly privileged to have spent six years at the New Zealand Herald, where I was reminded every day of the value of integrity and accuracy.”

“He’s one of the nicest people in media. I couldn’t be more excited about his arrival, and what that will mean for our business.

“The role will see Venuto leading a team across several key accounts spanning global service providers, listed entities and large exporters, injecting his strategic nous, command of narrative, and eye for a deadline.”

Venuto said: “The opportunity arose at the right moment and gives him a chance to tackle a challenge that has always interested me.

“Over the past decade I’ve had the privilege of interviewing some of the leading marketers and business people across New Zealand, and I’ve always had a real interest in not just filing the story but soaking up all that insight.

“What Max and Kelly really offered was an opportunity to take the skills I’ve honed over the years and put them into commercial practice.

“The biggest priorities throughout my career have been learning and taking on interesting challenges. Max and Kelly have given me a fantastic platform to continue growing.

“I feel incredibly privileged to have spent six years at the New Zealand Herald, where I was reminded every day of the value of integrity and accuracy. I plan to hold those values close as I start this new journey on the comms side.”

About One Plus One Communications
Founded in 2013, One Plus One is a leading New Zealand communications and engagement consultancy. Its highly integrated programmes and strategies are designed to improve perceptions and enhance revenues for its clients. These results are delivered through corporate pr, stakeholder engagement, investor relations, crisis management, and digital communications.

• oneplusonegroup.co.nz