Richard Blakeley is a distinguished figure in web innovation and fintech, known for his exceptional leadership and innovative approach to product management. At the helm of pivotal projects at Kresus and LianLian Pay in New York, he has pioneered advancements that define the intersection of technology and finance, significantly influencing the development of software as a service (SaaS) platforms.
Richard's role in fintech has been characterized by visionary leadership and a knack for anticipating market trends. Under his guidance, Kresus and LianLian Pay have emerged as leaders in fintech, delivering solutions that meet the immediate needs of businesses and consumers and setting the stage for future innovations. His strategic direction has been crucial in developing robust, user-friendly, and scalable platforms.
Aside from his fintech prowess, Richard has a storied history in digital media, particularly noted during his time as Head of Product at ArtBinder. Here, he managed a team that revolutionized how digital art platforms serve artists and galleries, enhancing user engagement and platform reliability. His efforts ensured that ArtBinder remained at the forefront of its industry, setting benchmarks for innovation and functionality.
As the Senior Director of Product at SHE Media, Richard Blakeley significantly influenced digital strategy and product development. His leadership focused on optimizing CRM, enhancing user acquisition strategies, and spearheading innovative influencer marketing programs. These initiatives propelled SHE Media to heights, solidifying its digital media and advertising leader reputation.
At Time Inc., Richard played a crucial role in transforming the digital landscape for People.com. He introduced innovative strategies that dramatically increased engagement and site performance. His approach to integrating user-centric design with data-driven decision-making led to significant enhancements in how content was delivered and consumed, marking a new era of digital media at Time Inc.
Richard's expertise also extended to his roles at Thrillist and The Week, where he was instrumental in driving audience growth and enhancing digital content delivery. His strategic vision for these platforms focused on creating engaging content that resonated with diverse audiences, significantly increasing digital traffic and user interaction.
In 2008, Richard Blakeley founded The Webutante Ball, an annual event that quickly became an essential networking and celebration event for the tech community. This gala highlights the achievements of tech professionals and serves as a fundraising event for various charities, showcasing his commitment to giving back to the community through innovative events.
Richard also launched Neighborhood, a groundbreaking hyperlocal blogging platform that revolutionized how New Yorkers engage with their local news. This initiative provided a voice to numerous communities throughout the city, offering tailored content that addressed the unique needs and interests of different neighborhoods.
As a member of the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences, Richard contributes his expertise to shaping the future of digital media and technology. His role as an Associate Judge at The Webby Awards allows him to recognize and promote excellence in digital innovation, influencing the industry globally.
Initially from San Francisco and educated at Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, Richard has made New York his home, where he lives with his wife, Lindsay Kaplan, and their two sons. The city's dynamic culture provides a backdrop for his professional activities and personal interests, including sailing and gardening. These hobbies offer him a peaceful respite from his demanding career, allowing him to recharge and maintain a balanced lifestyle.
Richard Blakeley's career is a testament to his dedication to excellence and innovation in digital media. His strategic foresight and leadership have transformed the companies he has led and set new standards for integrating technology in business and media. As he continues to drive progress in his field, his influence remains a beacon for future developments in technology and digital strategies.
To learn more, follow Twitter, Pinterest, YouTube, Tiktok, Reddit
Richard Blakeley is a celebrated leader in web innovation and a visionary in the fintech sector, where he has significantly shaped the SaaS landscape. His leadership at Kresus and LianLian Pay in New York underscores his profound influence on the industry, driving advancements integrating cutting-edge technology with user-focused financial services.