Christian Baesler Named Chief Operating Officer of BuzzFeed

Jonah Peretti, founder and chief executive officer, BuzzFeed, has named Christian Baesler as chief operating officer. Baesler, who will continue to serve as chief executive officer of Complex Networks, joined the company when BuzzFeed became a public company and acquired Complex Networks last month. 

Baesler brings a wealth of operational experience, having overseen the day-to-day operations of Complex Networks and its portfolio of brands since 2018. Prior to that Baesler spent more than a decade at Bauer Media Group, during which he oversaw Bauer’s digital business in the U.K. Baesler also served as president of Bauer Xcel Media, Bauer’s global digital division, where he built its U.S. operation. As president and now chief executive officer of Complex Networks, Baesler has helped the company grow with digital, video, audio and live events. 

“As the first pure digital media company to go public, we are just beginning to tell BuzzFeed’s story to the investment community,” says Peretti. “I’m thrilled to bring Christian’s strong track record of leadership and results to our whole business and to my leadership team at such a pivotal and exciting time for the company. I’ve also seen the operational strength, rigor and innovation Christian brought to Complex Networks, and am excited to see BuzzFeed thrive and grow under his leadership.” 

“Since Complex Networks became a part of BuzzFeed, I've been tremendously impressed by the strength of its diversified revenue model, the talent and expertise of its business leaders and Jonah's vision for a thriving, successful public digital media company,” says Baesler. “I'm also confident that these changes will help accelerate the integration of Complex Networks into BuzzFeed’s business model, unlocking its potential for growth. Edgar, Ken, Nilla and Richard are true, accomplished professionals, and I can’t wait to hit the ground running together.” 

Baesler will oversee all of BuzzFeed revenue functions, led by: