Avenue Z Appoints Whitney Hart as Chief Strategy Officer to Lead AI Optimization Initiatives

Avenue Z, a media and technology firm, has appointed Whitney Hart as Chief Strategy Officer to lead the company's AI Optimization strategy, a move that reflects the growing importance of artificial intelligence in reshaping digital marketing and search engine dynamics. Hart, known for her expertise in emerging technologies including blockchain and AI, will drive Avenue Z's proprietary AI Optimization framework, which aims to help brands navigate the evolving landscape of AI-driven search engines and content consumption.

Hart's background includes advising Fortune 500 brands, financial institutions, and Web3 pioneers on leveraging AI and emerging technologies for competitive advantage. In her new role, she emphasized that AI is fundamentally altering audience engagement, content creation, and consumption, stating that organizations proactively managing their AI presence will define the next era of influence. She joins Avenue Z from leadership roles at Feral File, where she pioneered digital art infrastructure, and Trilitech, where she oversaw marketing for the Tezos blockchain ecosystem.

Jeffrey Herzog, Founder and CEO of Avenue Z, described Hart as a force multiplier who understands the convergence of AI, finance, and culture. He noted that her appointment cements Avenue Z's leadership in modernizing search optimization, moving beyond traditional SEO to AI Optimization. The company began developing its AIO capabilities at its inception, and Hart's expertise is expected to accelerate efforts to help brands dominate in AI-driven search results, which Herzog believes will be crucial for first movers in digital marketing.

Under Hart's leadership, Avenue Z will expand its AI Optimization services, focusing on helping brands build reputation and revenue across channels in an algorithm-driven world. This approach addresses the shift from earned digital authority to architecting influence through AI systems. The company is making significant investments in AI search and the future of influence, positioning itself to deliver advantages that others have yet to grasp. Hart's advisory roles with Blaffer Art Museum and the Rhizome Council further highlight her intersection of art and AI expertise, reinforcing her visionary stance in cultural and technological innovation.