P&G exec, noted entrepreneur invest in area tech firm

TAMPA — Two prominent executives — one helped build a $170 million cloud computing services business and another oversaw the launch of products at Procter & Gamble, including Febreze and Swiffer — have joined the board of MyArea Network. The company publishes entertainment and lifestyle websites.

One new board member is Tony DiBenedetto, a 30-year executive who has helped launch and grow at least eight business, including Tampa-based TriBridge, an IT and cloud computing firm now part of DXC Technology. The other new director is Jamie Egasti, former CEO of Catalina Marketing and the Folgers Coffee Co., in addition to 30 years at Procter & Gamble. Both DiBenedetto and Egasti made an undisclosed investment in Tampa-based MyArea Network, according to a statement, in addition to joining the board.

DiBenedetto says he was impressed with the company and its president and CEO, Scott Conlon. “Scott has the passion for his company that I was looking as an investor,” DiBenedetto says in the statement. “If you have passion everything is good. That’s where success comes from. It’s the secret sauce and Scott has it.”

 MyArea Network’s entertainment and lifestyle websites, including nightlife, entertainment, dining, travel, events, things to do and where to live, work, and play are published in Tampa, Orlando and Austin, among other locations. “Both Jamie and Tony bring a level of talent, expertise and energy to the table,” Conlon says in the release. “We’re fortunate that they believe in what we do and will be by our side as we continue to strengthen our community ties and expansion efforts.”