Rachel Melgaard

Rachel Melgaard is a prominent figure at Google, currently serving as the Director of Global Search Ads and Head of Search Ad Formats & Targeting. She has played a significant role in the development and implementation of advertising strategies within Google's search ecosystem, particularly focusing on integrating generative AI into search ad formats.

Professional Background

Melgaard has an extensive career at Google, where she has held various leadership positions. Her work involves overseeing the creation and optimization of ad formats that leverage AI technologies to enhance user engagement and advertising effectiveness. This includes new features that allow ads to be integrated into AI-generated search results, which are designed to provide more relevant and helpful advertising experiences for users and advertisers alike.12

Recent Contributions

At a recent press event, Melgaard discussed Google's efforts to incorporate ads into its generative AI search features. She emphasized that these ads are strategically placed above, below, and within AI-generated summaries of search results, aiming to create a seamless experience for consumers while providing advertisers with effective tools to reach their target audiences.12 Melgaard stated, "We've been testing this for a while now and we've actually found that people find these ads really helpful and advertisers can find these ads effective" .1

Education and Skills

Melgaard holds a degree from Brown University, which has contributed to her analytical skills and strategic thinking in the fast-evolving digital marketing landscape. Her expertise lies in understanding both the technical aspects of ad technology and the creative elements necessary for effective advertising campaigns.

Online Presence

She maintains a professional profile on LinkedIn, where she connects with industry peers and shares insights related to digital marketing and advertising innovations .3

Overall, Rachel Melgaard's leadership at Google reflects a commitment to advancing advertising technologies while addressing the challenges posed by competitors and regulatory scrutiny in the digital advertising space.