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Chris Spadaccini

Operator

Chris Spadaccini is best known as the engineering and infrastructure leader behind OpenX's position as one of the largest independent programmatic ad exchanges globally. As CTO, he oversees the technical architecture that processes billions of ad transactions daily, and has been a prominent voice in advancing supply-path optimization (SPO) and sustainable programmatic practices — areas where OpenX has staked out industry-leading positions. Spadaccini has spent his career at the intersection of large-scale distributed systems and digital advertising technology. At OpenX, he has led initiatives to reduce the carbon footprint of programmatic advertising, contributing to the company's recognition as a sustainability-forward platform. His work on SPO technology has helped buyers and sellers streamline auction paths, reduce waste, and improve the economics of open-market programmatic trading. Beyond his operational role, Spadaccini has engaged with industry standards bodies and contributed to broader conversations around programmatic transparency, auction mechanics, and infrastructure efficiency. His influence is that of a deeply technical operator who also engages with the strategic and policy dimensions of the AdTech ecosystem.

Last updated Jun 11, 2026 by ATDb automated enrichment

Role
Chief Technology Officer
Company
OpenX
Based
Pasadena, California, United States
Years in industry
15 years

Bio

Chris Spadaccini is best known as the engineering and infrastructure leader behind OpenX's position as one of the largest independent programmatic ad exchanges globally. As CTO, he oversees the technical architecture that processes billions of ad transactions daily, and has been a prominent voice in advancing supply-path optimization (SPO) and sustainable programmatic practices — areas where OpenX has staked out industry-leading positions. Spadaccini has spent his career at the intersection of large-scale distributed systems and digital advertising technology. At OpenX, he has led initiatives to reduce the carbon footprint of programmatic advertising, contributing to the company's recognition as a sustainability-forward platform. His work on SPO technology has helped buyers and sellers streamline auction paths, reduce waste, and improve the economics of open-market programmatic trading. Beyond his operational role, Spadaccini has engaged with industry standards bodies and contributed to broader conversations around programmatic transparency, auction mechanics, and infrastructure efficiency. His influence is that of a deeply technical operator who also engages with the strategic and policy dimensions of the AdTech ecosystem.

Career

  • VP of Engineering

    OpenX · prior to CTO appointment

  • Senior Engineering Leadership

    OpenX · early tenure

Expertise & education

Expertise

Programmatic AdvertisingSupply-Path Optimization (SPO)Ad Exchange InfrastructureReal-Time Bidding (RTB)Sustainable AdTechDistributed Systems at ScaleHeader BiddingOpenRTB Standards

Speaking topics

Supply-Path Optimization and Programmatic EfficiencySustainability in Programmatic AdvertisingLarge-Scale Ad Exchange ArchitectureThe Future of Open-Market Programmatic Trading

Recognition

Notable achievements

  • Led OpenX's technical infrastructure supporting billions of daily programmatic ad transactions as one of the world's largest independent ad exchanges
  • Championed OpenX's sustainability initiative, helping position the company as a leader in reducing the carbon footprint of programmatic advertising
  • Drove supply-path optimization technology development at OpenX, improving auction efficiency for buyers and sellers
  • Contributed to industry standards around programmatic trading and auction mechanics