Benham, who has been in her most recent role since March 2013 and been with the company for more than four years, will take over from Tom Eatenton, who will step into the role of chief executive.
As part of her remit, Benham will oversee all project-based work at a top level, in line with client expectations, as well as sales and marketing. She will also be the first point of contact for new business for higher-end clients.
CEO Eatenton will be exploring international opportunities for the agency including their entertainment division, Kru Talent, as part of his role, with the outlook of expanding the business.
Eatenton, who spoke exclusively to Event, said: "Sarah-Jane has been a determined and committed part of Kru Live since she worked for us on our clients’ campaigns up until 2010, moving on to helping out in the office as a booker prior to our World Cup campaign.
"In just four years her career path blossomed to account manager – notably commencing and developing our relationship with Havas Worldwide, one of our most regular and valued clients – to client services director winning significant project wins across multiple agencies that have contributed considerably to the development of our business and infrastructure to date."
Benham added: "It is a great honour to have been appointed managing director of Kru Live. I have the great privilege of working with a truly talented team who have a proven track record of delivering ‘best in class’ staffing and results.
"I am very much looking forward to building on our success and strengthening our reputation as leaders within the industry. I am a tireless advocate of Kru Live, passionate about our industry and absolutely thrilled to take on this role."
Eatenton highlighted to Event the company's work over the coming weeks, which has a strong sporting focus, including working with Mastercard on the British Open for the fourth consecutive year.
Other events include the Tour de France, activity around the Commonwealth Games and the Ryder Cup. Kru Live will also be working on activations for Rekorderlig and Nivea this year.
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