Rethinking Programmatic Power: AI, SPO, and the SSP Shakeup

With Bryan Szekely, Head of AdTech Strategy, Sigma Software

About the podcast

AI is no longer a futuristic concept — it’s actively reshaping programmatic advertising. From commoditized SSPs to signal loss challenges, the power dynamics are shifting. In this episode, Bryan Szekely, Vice Chair of the Prebid Buyer Task Force and Head of AdTech Strategy at Sigma Software, unpacks how AI is driving smarter media buying, optimizing campaign management, and pushing SSPs to evolve or fade.

About the guest

Bryan Szekely is a seasoned ad tech leader with over a decade of experience across both the buy and sell sides. Currently serving as the Head of AdTech Strategy at Sigma Software, Bryan brings a unique perspective on how AI is transforming media buying. As Vice Chair of the Prebid Buyer Task Force and former Mobile Committee Chair at Prebid.org, he advocates for greater transparency and innovation in the open web ecosystem.With leadership experience at companies like Magnite and MediaLab, Bryan has tackled the complexities of programmatic advertising firsthand. Whether discussing AI’s role in campaign management or the shifting dynamics of SSPs and DSPs, Bryan is at the forefront of what’s next in ad tech.

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