Yas Island Abu Dhabi, the region’s leading leisure and entertainment destination, appointed Hollywood’s most charismatic superstar Ryan Reynolds as its newest Chief Island Officer (CIO). Following in the footsteps of former CIOs Kevin Hart and Jason Momoa, Reynolds brings his trademark charm and wit to the role, promising an unforgettable era of adventure and excitement.In the uproarious new trailer, Reynolds descends from the sky, parachuting straight into the heart of the action amidst speeding cars on Yas Marina Circuit. However, much to his chagrin, he misses his intended landing spot at the illustrious W Abu Dhabi - Yas Island, adding a hilarious twist to his grand entrance.Reynolds strides forward with an air of unmistakable confidence, poised to unveil his new role as CIO. With pride, he recounts the diverse array of hats he's worn throughout his career: actor, producer, owner of a Welsh football club and now another illustrious title to his repertoire, proudly proclaiming himself the Chief Island Officer of Yas Island Abu Dhabi. Yet, as he attempts to continue his dramatic speech, his words are swiftly drowned out by the buzzing cacophony of speeding cars. The video sets the stage for an electrifying journey ahead as Reynolds prepares to dive headfirst into Yas Island's thrilling attractions. After all, its Ryan's island, and everyone else is just along for the ride."Liam Findlay, CEO of Miral Destinations, enthusiastically remarked, “With the appointment of Ryan Reynolds as our latest Chief Island Officer of Yas Island Abu Dhabi, we continue the tradition of excellence established by Kevin Hart and Jason Momoa. Reynolds brings his own unique blend of charisma, energy, and enthusiasm to the role, promising to elevate the Yas Island experience to even greater heights. We're thrilled to embark on this exhilarating journey with him, inviting fans worldwide to be part of the legacy.”From speeding through rollercoasters at Ferrari World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi to exploring Gotham City at Warner Bros. World™ Yas Island, Abu Dhabi Reynolds is rolling into Yas Island with unmatched energy and style, inviting fans to #RollLikeRyan and experience the island like never before.

SHUAA Capital has appointed a new chairman, vice chairman and managing director, as it continues a restructuring process following the departure of its largest individual shareholder last year.The board of the investment bank and asset manager will now be chaired by former vice chairman Badr Al Olama, who is also the director general of Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) and Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO).New board member Nabil Ramadhan, who is chief strategy and marketing officer at Dubai Holding Asset Management, will serve as vice chairman.Ahmed Alahmadi, former Abu Dhabi sovereign wealth fund official, current CEO of Al Baher Real Estate, who joined the SHUAA Capital board for the second time in August 2023, will now serve as managing director, a bourse filing said.The new appointments follow the departure of chairman Fadhel Al Ali, who stepped down from the Dubai-based entity following nearly five years in the role, and a series of resignations, ending with its legal and compliance head last month.The Dubai Financial Market (DFM)-listed entity is in the process of restructuring, having secured agreement from bondholders of its outstanding $150 million bond to convert a portion of notes to equity after negotiations.SHUAA announced last year that it planned a rights issue to extinguish losses which reached AED 866 million ($235.78 million) in 2023, although it is currently suspended from trading due to not filing audited results for the year.The entity’s shares fell to an all-time low below AED 0.12 at the end of March and it was forced to deny delisting rumours in February.Ramadhan was elected to the board on Wednesday at SHUAA’s general assembly in Abu Dhabi along with Darwish Al Ketbi, group head of investment of Abu Dhabi conglomerate Darwish Bin Ahmed & Sons Group.The fifth board member is Hamda Eid Al Mheiri, director of government and sovereign relations at Abu Dhabi sovereign investor ADQ.

ADMO Lifestyle Holding (ADMO), owned by Alpha Dhabi Holding PJSC (ADX: AlphaDhabi) and Monterock International Limited, today announced the appointment of Sanjay Nandi as its first CEO. Sanjay joins ADMO from Pacha Group, an entertainment and lifestyle company that operates across the music, leisure, entertainment, hospitality, fragrance, and fashion sectors, among others.  As CEO of ADMO, Sanjay will be responsible for propelling ADMO’s global expansion strategy as well as building on the Group’s vision to become a global leader in hospitality and lifestyle. The appointment closely follows a series of ambitious forward steps taken by ADMO in recent months where the Group has concluded 4 strategic investments in Nammos, Alphamind JV, Ce La Vi and Em Sheriff.  Petros Stathis, Vice Chairman, ADMO, said: “In Sanjay Nandi, we are attracting one of the highest calibre leaders in the entire global entertainment, hospitality, and lifestyle businesses. He joins us at an exciting time, with his appointment reflecting the energy and ambition of ADMO as well as our intent for the entire global lifestyle market. Through Sanjay and our leadership team, ADMO will continue pushing forward with unstoppable momentum, building a compelling global lifestyle platform which identifies and unlocks opportunities in dynamic markets and welcomes iconic brands into its ever-expanding portfolio.”      Sanjay Nandi, CEO of ADMO Lifestyle Holding, said: “Being the first CEO of any organisation is always an exciting prospect and I’m personally thrilled to join ADMO at this pivotal time. I believe that what we have here at ADMO is a truly compelling proposition; we’re an organisation that can make the extraordinary effortless through world-class, holistic experiences that are unique, unexpected and unforgettable. And in the coming months I’m looking forward to building on that proposition by working with fresh, disruptive, and iconic brands to ensure ADMO’s vision for the global hospitality industry comes to life.” ADMO continues to welcome restaurants and entertainment offerings in diverse locations to its portfolio. In 2024, it will open Nammos Cannes, Nammos London, Ce La Vi London, and Clap Ibiza. ADMO’s continued development in the hospitality sector with a strong presence in the UAE market and growing into the ultra-luxury segment in internationally, forms part of ADMO’s broader strategy to be a leading investor in the hospitality, lifestyle, and entertainment sectors.  ADMO is committed to scaling its platform and integrating new brands, and through these activities it is aligning with the UAE’s national tourism strategy, which aims to attract 40 million hotel guests by 2031 and secure Dh100 billion in tourism investments.

Weber Shandwick has announced key leadership changes to strengthen its crisis, issues, and risk management offerings across the Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) region.As part of this, Barnaby Fry (pictured) has joined as Head of Crisis and Issues, EMEA. Fry brings over 20 years of experience in crisis communications, having previously served as a director at Hogarth Partnership and MHP Communications.He will focus on expanding Weber Shandwick's crisis and issues capabilities across EMEA, leveraging his expertise in crisis preparation, mitigation, and response.Rod Clayton Transitions to Head of Risk and Advisory, EMEA. Clayton, a Weber Shandwick veteran of 28 years, will take on a newly created role focused on advising senior executives and boards.He will help clients identify, manage, and communicate about operational challenges and potential reputational risks.Together, Fry and Clayton's leadership, alongside Weber Shandwick's existing team of crisis and reputation management specialists, positions the firm to address a wide range of challenges faced by clients in the region.These challenges include:Misinformation and disinformationCybersecurity threatsArtificial intelligence (AI) integrationGeopolitical issuesEmployee and labour relationsBrand safetyGovernment and regulatory affairsBusiness operationsLitigationOrganisational changeBusiness and financial communicationsThis strategic expansion underscores Weber Shandwick's commitment to providing clients with a data-driven and human-led approach to navigating complex crisis situations across the EMEA region and globally.

Dentsu Creative MENA has appointed highly awarded creative leader, Jon Holloway, as Managing Director, Brand and Experience. In this newly created role, Jon will lead the brand and experience teams across the region, driving operational excellence to deliver next-generation projects and transformational work that fosters brand growth through immersive customer experiences.Jon brings with him a wealth of experience, having held key positions in renowned agencies including Dentsu Creative EMEA, R/GA, and Zuper. His previous roles include Managing Partner, Experience, at Dentsu Creative EMEA where he played a vital role in defining and connecting the regional experience team. Additionally, Jon served as VP, Managing Director, where he led the Australian offices and defined the local product strategy. Jon also co-founded Zuper – a fintech startup - serving as Chief Product Officer, where he played an instrumental role in building the product and teams from the ground up before returning to R/GA as VP, Executive Strategy Director, overseeing the strategic offering in Australia and supporting APAC initiatives.Throughout his career, Jon has worked with a prestigious roster of clients including Nike, Google, YouTube, Samsung, Toyota, Uber, Skoda, Timberland, American Express, Qantas, McDonald's, KFC, and his work has been recognized with numerous accolades including Lions, D&AD, Global and Local Effies and Spikes. With a strategic focus on providing leadership and inspiration to the brand and experience teams across the region and ensuring alignment with organisational goals, Jon will also be responsible for directing operations to facilitate growth, with a focus on Dentsu Creative’s rapidly expanding operations in Saudi Arabia.  Jon's remit includes developing an outstanding team in the region capable of delivering groundbreaking work through brand and experience, as well as positioning DC MENA Lab as a center of excellence for the ever-expanding emerging technology world."We are thrilled to welcome Jon to lead our Brand & Experience division in the MENA region," said Ziad Ghorayeb, Regional Managing Director at Dentsu Creative MENA. "His track record of driving innovation and delivering exceptional results for clients aligns perfectly with our vision for growth and excellence. With Jon's leadership, we are confident in our ability to elevate our capabilities and make a significant impact in the region. This newly created role comes as a testament to the accelerated growth we've experienced at Dentsu Creative over the past few years. It's part of our overarching vision to further propel this momentum and solidify our position as a leader in the industry." Commenting on his new role, Jon added “Throughout my career spanning three continents and diverse roles ranging from startups to global creative agencies, I've witnessed the power of diversity, innovation, and opportunity firsthand. Now, I'm excited to bring this experience to the vibrant landscape of the Middle East. It's a region brimming with potential, and I look forward to leveraging my background to drive transformative growth and innovation in brand experiences here.” Jon Holloway's appointment marks an exciting new chapter for Dentsu Creative MENA as the agency continues to build out its leadership team and strengthen its position as a creative powerhouse in the region.

JCDecaux ATA has announced the appointment of Elie Hajjar as the new Managing Director, effective May 9, 2024. Elie Hajjar will succeed Bassam Alaujan, who has opted to step down from his position due to personal reasons.Martin Sabbagh, the CEO of JCDecaux Middle East & Africa, extended his gratitude to Bassam Alaujan for his exceptional contributions during his tenure, especially in navigating the challenges faced by JCDecaux ATA since his appointment in 2017. Sabbagh expressed his appreciation for Alaujan's dedication and wished him success in his future endeavors.Speaking on Hajjar's appointment, Sabbagh commended his remarkable journey within the company, evolving from a Sales Executive to assuming the role of Managing Director. Hajjar's leadership, dedication, and alignment with JCDecaux ATA's values have been instrumental in the company's success.In his new role, Elie Hajjar will leverage his extensive experience to steer JCDecaux ATA's strategic direction, particularly focusing on its portfolio in Saudi Arabia. This portfolio includes 26 exclusive airport advertising contracts and the advertising concession for the prestigious infrastructure of the King Fahd Causeway.The announcement underscores JCDecaux ATA's commitment to fostering talent from within its ranks and empowering individuals to take on key leadership positions. The company expresses its confidence in Hajjar's ability to drive growth and innovation in the region.

Outsized, the leading talent-on-demand platform that connects top independent professionals with large enterprise clients and consulting firms across Asia-Pacific, Africa, and the Middle East, has announced a series of strategic senior appointments. These new hires will play a crucial role in strengthening Outsized’s operations and accelerating its growth strategy following a successful Series A funding round led by Knife Capital.The newly appointed senior personnel include Jannie Theron as Financial Director based in South Africa, Srikant Krishnan as the Regional Lead for MENA region based in the UAE, Frans Meyer as Senior Business Development Manager in South Africa, Nick Fofana as Senior Product Manager based in Singapore, and Ines Kracun as Product Designer based in Singapore. Each brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success in their respective fields, aligning with Outsized’s vision to revolutionise flexible workforce models globally.For the MENA region, Srikant Krishnan comes with extensive experience in fostering growth and partnerships across diverse sectors. Srikant’s previous roles include leading enterprise sales for UberEats and spearheading Partnerships and Monetization at Careem MENA. He will aim to expand Outsized’s market base, especially in key geographies such as the UAE and KSA, and into new sectors including energy, retail, and healthcare.New Appointments - OutsizedThese strategic hires, set against the backdrop of Outsized’s recent Series A funding round in October 2023, will further enable the company to expand its influence and capabilities in the global on-demand talent market, which is rapidly growing, as almost half of Fortune 500 companies use on-demand talent platforms to access highly-skilled workers.Major companies across the MENA, Asia-Pacific, and Africa regions are increasingly adopting agile workforce models to quickly respond to market demands. According to the Talent-On-Demand 2024 report from Outsized, the MENA region's on-demand talent pool possesses the highest average level of expertise, with 10.1 years, surpassing both the APAC and Africa regions."To leverage the momentum of this burgeoning market, Outsized is strategically hiring exceptional talent aligned with our core vision and, importantly, values of doing business in the right way and being a force for good in the talent market. These new additions bring invaluable expertise, empowering us to further solidify our role as a game-changer in the freelance economy across dynamic regions like Asia-Pacific, Africa, and the Middle East," said Niclas Thelander, (pictured above), Founder & CMO of Outsized.Key global appointments at Outsized include -Jannie Theron brings nearly two decades of expertise in finance, having previously served as Regional Business Director and Finance Manager for Pearson. Jannie will oversee global financial operations, ensuring strategic growth and efficient financial management across all markets.Frans Meyer steps into the role of Senior Business Development Manager after eight years at PNet, South Africa’s leading online recruitment platform. His tenure there was marked by exceptional growth and innovation in recruitment practices. Meyer's role will involve both cultivating the existing client relationships and spearheading new client acquisitions to significantly boost revenue.Nick Fofana, appointed as Senior Product Manager, brings a strong background in product management from leading tech and fintech growth companies, most recently at CardUp and CoverWallet (an AON Company). His role at Outsized involves owning the product roadmap, enhancing user engagement, and improving app usability globally through his expertise in agile methodologies and user-centric design.Ines Kracun, joining as Product Designer, has significant experience in digital design and user experience. Previously a lead designer at a European tech startup, she successfully revamped user interfaces to enhance user satisfaction. At Outsized, she will enhance the platform's design, focusing on user needs and business goals, setting design requirements, and identifying product improvements.

Global technology company SAP has announced the appointment of Eng. Sundus Bushahri as Managing Director for its Kuwait operations. With more than 15 years of experience gained at large multinationals and Fortune 500 companies, Bushahri will lead her team in supporting Kuwait’s ambitious digitalization and workforce training agenda, helping companies to leverage the enormous potential of cloud computing and business AI.“Kuwait is a highly significant growth market for SAP – one that is rapidly embracing digital transformation and working towards the creation of a sustainable workforce equipped with the skills needed for a thriving digital economy. Sundus Bushahri has a deep understanding of global operations and firsthand knowledge of Kuwaiti culture, making her the ideal person to lead SAP’s support of these national goals,” said Ahmed AlFaifi, Senior Vice President of SAP Middle East and Africa – North, to whom Bushahri will report directly. “With her technical expertise, extensive market knowledge and natural leadership abilities, Sundus will lead her team in supporting the public and private sector adoption of new technologies, while also promoting the training and development of the Kuwaiti workforce.”Immediately prior to her promotion, Bushahri was Vice President of Business Development and Sales for SAP Kuwait. In this diverse role she created tailored solutions for enterprises in the public and private sectors, while also building strong strategic relationships with SAP clients and partners.Commenting on her new role, Bushahri said, “As a proud Kuwaiti, I am grateful for this opportunity to help support the country’s ambitious digital agenda. Our Kuwaiti public and private sectors have demonstrated a willingness to embrace digital transformation in a way that will ensure we remain at the forefront of new technological developments. In addition to helping companies leverage emerging technologies such as Business AI, my team and I will also continue to support education initiatives to develop Kuwaiti’s diverse technology talents.”Bushahri studied in the US, and holds a BSc in Software Engineering from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University Daytona Beach in Florida.

The Board of Directors of stc Bahrain has announced the appointment of Eng. Khalid bin Baijan Al Osaimi as the new CEO of stc Bahrain, effective April 28, 2024, succeeding Eng. Nezar Banabeela.Commenting on the new leadership appointment at stc Bahrain, Eng. Moaeed Alsaloom, Chairman of the Board of Directors of stc Bahrain expressed his confidence in the appointment of Eng. Khalid Al-Osaimi as one of the business leaders who has witnessed transformation of the region’s telecommunications sector for more than 22 years. His extensive experience and knowledge of the telecommunications industry and the evolving digital transformation landscape will contribute significantly in driving forward stc Bahrain’s digital-champion strategic growth while enabling the enterprise and business sector to adapt to digital transformation by leveraging stc Bahrain’s innovative digital services.In his tenure of more than 20 years with the stc Group, Eng. Khalid Al-Osaimi has held several leadership positions which includes Technology, Mobile, carriers and Wholesale. Recently, he was the Vice President of Marketing for the Wholesale business at Mobily since 2022.Amongst his academic accomplishments, Eng. Al-Osaimi holds a Bachelor’s degree in computer science and a Master’s degree in Business Administration from King Saud University in Riyadh.The Board of Directors of stc Bahrain extend their gratitude to the outgoing CEO, Eng. Nezar Banabeela for his leadership and contribution over the past years and wish him success in his new role in the stc Group as Head of Special Projects.The appointment of the new stc Bahrain CEO is in line with the stc Group’s strategic vision to solidify its positioning in regional telecommunications landscape by bringing in business leaders with distinguished expertise in the Communications and Information Technology industry.

Landor, a global leader in branding, has announced the appointment of Lara Assouad as the Executive Creative Director for the GCC region. Assouad, renowned for her expertise in bilingual branding and Arabic type design, will spearhead Landor's creative initiatives from its Dubai studio.With a career dedicated to exploring the intricacies of Arabic and Latin scripts in multicultural contexts, Assouad brings a wealth of experience to her new role. Her innovative approach has garnered recognition, including two certificates of excellence in typography from The New York Type Directors Club and selection as an artist for the Jameel Prize 4.Teemu Suviala, Landor’s Chief Creative Officer, expressed anticipation for Assouad's return, highlighting her exceptional leadership qualities and commitment to creativity. Mariagrazia De Angelis, General Manager at Landor Dubai, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing Assouad's deep understanding of the local landscape and artistic background.Prior to joining Landor, Assouad served as the Creative Director of Design for Apple in the region, where she played a pivotal role in shaping the brand's visual identity and launching campaigns tailored to the Arab market.Beyond her professional achievements, Assouad is recognized as an accomplished artist, with her work featured in prestigious exhibitions such as the Scripts and Calligraphy exhibition by the Ministry of Culture, Saudi Arabia.Assouad expressed her excitement about returning to Landor, stating her eagerness to collaborate with the talented team in Dubai to create world-class brands resonating with regional customers and clients.Her appointment signifies a significant milestone for Landor as the company reinforces its creative capabilities and expands its presence in the GCC market. With Assouad at the helm, Landor is poised to continue its legacy of delivering innovative branding solutions in the region.

In a strategic maneuver aimed at consolidating its presence in the Middle East, Interbrand, the world-renowned brand consulting firm, proudly announces the appointment of Claudine Tass as Client Director for the region.With over two decades of extensive experience in brand development, Tass brings a wealth of expertise from both agency and client-side roles. Her appointment sets the stage for a more dynamic partnership with Interbrand's premier clients.Based in Riyadh, Tass will spearhead Interbrand's regional initiatives, demonstrating the firm's commitment to nurturing and advancing the brand narratives of some of the most influential companies in the Middle East. Her recruitment comes at a pivotal moment as Interbrand celebrates over a decade of shaping the brand landscapes of industry giants such as stc, AlHilal, anb, SPL, Al Rajhi Bank, NBK, and Dubai Holding, among others.Nancy Villanueva, CEO of Interbrand Middle East, remarked, "Claudine’s induction reflects a continued commitment from Interbrand to the thriving Middle Eastern markets. It’s a testament to our ongoing dedication to guiding brands and building relationships through their transformative journeys towards unprecedented growth. The region’s dynamic market landscape is one of the most exhilarating globally, and we are thrilled to co-create futures brimming with potential."Originally from Lebanon, Tass embarked on her career as a Graphic Designer following her academic tenure at Notre Dame University-Louaize. Her journey through advertising and branding has been characterized by significant contributions to brand management within leading entities, including NEOM, Soudah Development, and Saudi Artisanal Company, in Saudi Arabia since 2015.

Edelman has appointed Marie Claire Maalouf as the new EMEA Chief Creative Officer, following the departure of Mattias Ronge and Stefan Ronge. Maalouf, who previously served as the Middle East Chief Creative Officer at Edelman, will lead the agency's creative output across 13 markets in EMEA, including brand marketing, digital, influencer and entertainment, and will be based in the UAE.Throughout her career, Maalouf has been recognized for her work on impactful campaigns, such as 'Despair No More' for Tena, which aimed to redefine menopause for women in the Middle East. She has received numerous awards for her creative work, including Cannes Lions, The One Show, Caples, Clio Awards, LIA Awards, Dubai Lynx, D&AD, ANDYs, Warc, and Effies.Judy John, Edelman Global Chief Creative Officer, expressed her excitement for Maalouf's appointment, stating that she is confident that Maalouf's leadership will elevate the agency's work in the EMEA region.Maalouf expressed her enthusiasm for joining Edelman, stating that she was inspired by the agency's mission to build actionable brands through trust and the opportunity to work with a team of passionate creatives.AJ Hesselink, EMEA Chief Executive, expressed gratitude towards the outgoing co-chief creative officers and welcomed Maalouf's appointment, stating that she has already made a significant impact on the agency's ability to win new clients and produce important work.

Eastern Fortune Investments LLC (EFI), led by Harry Gill, announces the elevation of Prabhpreet Singh Gill, also known as Harry Gill, to the role of chairman of Pay10, marking a significant milestone in the organization's legacy of innovation and leadership in the fintech landscape.EFI, a next-generation hybrid family office and holding company, spearheads a diverse portfolio and fosters fintech growth across MENA and South Asia. Headquartered in Dubai at the Opus by Omniyat in Business Bay, EFI provides strategic guidance and invests in cutting-edge solutions, aligning with the UAE's 2024-2030 Economic and Digital Vision.Under Harry Gill's leadership, Pay10, initially an e-payment solution in India, has expanded globally from its Dubai headquarters in the Ubora Tower. Pay10 prioritizes local payment schemes and methods, aligning with each country's vision and agenda to support financial inclusion.Pay10, a flagship venture of EFI, champions an inclusive e-payment ecosystem, emphasizing financial inclusion and digital transformation for merchants and individuals. Gill's strategic leadership has positioned Pay10 as a frontrunner in reshaping the global financial services industry.Driven by innovation and customer-centricity, Gill's leadership has propelled Pay10 from a startup to a leading fintech powerhouse. His dedication to excellence has earned acclaim as he reshapes banking and financial services with transformative technologies.Harry Gill's vision for EFI extends beyond innovation; it encompasses progress and positive change in the financial landscape. EFI's fintech portfolio empowers individuals and businesses worldwide, reflecting Gill's commitment to shaping a more inclusive and sustainable future.Gill emphasizes EFI's dedication to fostering innovation, nurturing creativity, and driving meaningful impact in finance. As chairman of EFI and Pay10, he leads a team dedicated to building legacies of innovation, progress, and positive change.

Momentus Digital, India’s leading Unified Media Advertising Partner, expands its global management with the addition of Sandeep Sabharwal as VP for Global Expansion based in Dubai, UAE. Momentus Digital is a Unified Media Advertising Partner designed to provide a full extent of audiences through Native, Programmatic, Search, Display, and Gaming audience channels. The newly launched Programmatic DSP, Velocity+, empowers advertisers by offering the ability to target premium and brand-safe inventory. They specialize in a vertical where advertisers work with them on Brand Engagement or Performance Marketing. Their brand engagement strategy focuses on delivering the right audience through the right channel at the right time. In his new role as Vice President of Global Expansion at Momentus Digital, Sandeep is at the forefront of driving strategic initiatives to propel the company's global growth trajectory. Leveraging his wealth of experience, he assumes a pivotal role in expanding the company's reach across diverse markets, positioning it for unparalleled success. Sandeep is a dynamic professional with three decades of experience. In the last 18 years, he has worked in the digital media industry with organizations such as SVG Media, GroupM, Quasar Media, and others. Prior to joining Momentus Digital, Sandeep was a part of Httpool digital, where he served as Regional Partner Director and was spearheading the business relationship for platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Snapchat in India and select SEA markets. His expertise encompasses strategic business development, partnership management, team building and global expansion initiatives. "I am thrilled to join Momentus Digital, their innovative approach to digital media, coupled with their commitment to driving global growth, aligns perfectly with my professional aspirations. I am excited to collaborate with this talented team to expand our reach across diverse markets, driving meaningful impact and shaping the future of the digital landscape. Together, we will unlock new opportunities and achieve unprecedented success. I am truly grateful for this opportunity and look forward to making a lasting impact,” said Sandeep Sabharwal. As Sandeep joins as VP, Global expansion, we look forward to building strong relationships with our clients and helping them achieve success in this dynamic and exciting market, Ms. Arooshi Dharamdasani CEO of Momentus Digital. With an unwavering track record of success and an innate passion for driving innovation in the digital landscape, Sandeep continues to be at the forefront of shaping the future of digital marketing and advertising, making indelible contributions to the industry.

Sandsoft, the mobile-first game developer, publisher, and investor powered by world-leading games industry talent, has today announced the full-time appointments of Norah AlQuaydhib and Reham Yeshar, who join following their success in Sandsoft’s Press Start internship program. Aligned with Vision 2030, and delivered in partnership with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology of Saudi Arabia, Press Start provides the opportunity for a diverse mix of entry-level game developers to design a mobile game from the ground up while receiving support from Sandsoft’s team of games industry experts. Norah and Reham’s excellence in the program led to the offer of two full-time game development roles within the Riyadh Studio to create innovative, accessible core social games for players across the world.  Yahsir Qureshi, VP Head of Studio, Sandsoft, commented: “The entire Sandsoft team was incredibly impressed with the fresh perspectives provided by Norah and Reham. As the games industry in the Middle East continues to expand, it’s hugely important to give up-and-coming talent from a range of backgrounds the opportunity to grow professionally. At Sandsoft, we're committed to building a diverse team with 29% of our workforce being female, above the industry average. Whilst there's still more to do in this area, we're proud to nurture local and diverse talent, and I look forward to seeing Norah and Reham's continued growth.” Norah AlQuaydhib, Junior Game programmer, Sandsoft, added:  “I’ve loved working at Sandsoft for the past six months. Sharing an office with experienced gaming leaders has provided a great learning experience, and I can’t wait to discover even more.”Reham Yeshar, Junior Game Artist, Sandsoft, commented: “The Press Start program provided a great opportunity to work with like-minded developers eager to grow in their careers. It’s an incredibly exciting time for Sandsoft, and I’m excited to be involved. ” In March 2024, Sandsoft announced a Joint Venture with NetEase Games to publish games within the MENA region. To learn more about careers at Sandsoft

Kartik Chandrasekhar, a seasoned industry leader, has transitioned to a new role as Chief Commercial Officer - Asia, ANZ, Middle East, and Africa at Kellanova, a US-headquartered multinational corporation formerly known as the Kellogg Company.Chandrasekhar, known for his distinguished tenure at Unilever, where he held various pivotal positions over the span of more than two decades, has decided to take on this new challenge after departing from Unilever earlier this year. His departure marked the end of a remarkable journey with the company, where he ascended from a management trainee to head critical divisions such as oral care and skin cleansing for D&E markets, and served as a global brand lead for Pepsodent.Reflecting on his time at Unilever, Chandrasekhar had expressed profound gratitude while leaving his earlier organization, stating: "Unilever welcomed me as a trainee and gave me the opportunity to become the marketer and business leader I am today." He went on to highlight the honor he felt in leading globally renowned brands under Unilever's umbrella, including Ponds, Pepsodent, Signal, Knorr, Pears, and Lifebuoy.Chandrasekhar's extensive experience and strategic acumen are expected to bring a fresh perspective to Kellanova's operations across the vast territories of Asia, ANZ, Middle East, and Africa. With a track record of steering iconic brands to success, his appointment signals Kellanova's commitment to driving growth and innovation in key markets.Outside the boardroom, Chandrasekhar is known for his active lifestyle and passion for activities such as swimming, running, and reading. He resides in Singapore with his wife and two children.

GROHE, as part of LIXIL, one of the global leaders in complete bathroom and kitchen fittings, has announced the appointment of Stefan Schmied as the new Leader of the IMEA region at LIXIL. The IMEA region includes India & Subcontinent, the Middle East including Turkiye, and Africa. The appointment reflects GROHE's commitment to global growth, innovation, and customer success.Stefan brings over 20 years of industry experience to his role. He has led key strategic initiatives, expanded channels, built brands, and managed sales operations in the retail, wholesale, and project business for global companies. Stefan has previously led the project business channel at GROHE, transforming it into an independent Business Unit that became a key growth driver for LIXIL EMENA. He has led the specification and execution of new-build and renovation projects, such as globally leading hotel brands, iconic airports, international healthcare groups and prominent residential developers worldwide.In his new role, Stefan will be responsible for accelerating growth and enhancing long-term sales performance of the GROHE brand through cross-regional collaboration and strategic innovation. He will also focus on expanding the customer base, building partnerships and driving innovation to contribute to the GROHE's overall success, in addition to overseeing the company's operations in IMEA.Prior to joining GROHE as part of LIXIL, Stefan has been the CEO and President of major construction companies in Europe and Asia. He has extensive experience in sanitaryware, tiles and sanitary technology, having worked with global companies in C-suite and senior management roles across the Middle East.

AXIAN Telecom, one of the leading pan-African telecom groups, has appointed Vivek Badrinath to its Board of Directors as a Non-Executive Independent Director (NED).Before his new appointment, Badrinath spent three years at Vantage Towers AG where he was the Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Management Board. He led the establishment of the towers company in 2020, facilitated its IPO in 2021, and eventually its sale to Private Equity in 2023. Under his leadership, Vantage Towers effectively managed 88,000 telecom towers across eight European countries.Badrinath has held extensive leadership roles within the telecommunications sector. In 2016, he assumed the position of CEO of Africa Middle East Asia Pacific at Vodafone, joining their Executive Committee. In this capacity, he provided oversight to Vodafone's operations across various regions including the Vodacom Group, India, Australia, Egypt, Ghana, Kenya, and New Zealand. Additionally, he served as the Interim CEO of Vodafone Business during his tenure. Prior to his time at Vodafone, Mr. Badrinath held key positions at Orange, starting in 2004 as the CTO of Orange Mobile before advancing to the Group CTO. His journey at Orange culminated in his appointment as CEO of Orange Business Services and subsequently as Deputy CEO of Orange Group, where he spearheaded initiatives in Innovation, Marketing, and Technology.He also served as the Deputy Chief Executive at the renowned international hospitality group Accor Hotels where he was responsible for overseeing marketing strategies, digital solutions, distribution channels, and information systems.Hassanein Hiridjee, Chairman of the Board commented: “We are delighted to welcome Vivek Badrinath to the AXIAN Telecom Board. Badrinath’s leadership in managing telecom infrastructure and driving strategic growth aligns perfectly with AXIAN Telecom's vision of responsible expansion across Africa. With his wealth of knowledge and commitment to excellence, we are confident that he will make significant contributions to our mission of enhancing connectivity and improving the lives of communities throughout the continent. On behalf of the Board, I extend our warmest welcome to Badrinath.""I'm thrilled and deeply honored to become a part of AXIAN Telecom. Drawing from my experience and expertise in the telecommunications sector, I am looking forward to playing a pivotal role in driving AXIAN Telecom to new heights in Africa. I firmly believe that together, we can make a substantial and noteworthy impact across the continent,” said Badrinath about his appointment.Badrinath also previously served on many boards as a Non-Executive Director including Nokia, GSMA, Atos and Accor Group.

Riyadh-headquartered MBC Group has announced that Samar Akrouk, a seasoned member of the team, will be the new Managing Director of MBC Studiosfollowing Christina Wayne's departure.Akrouk will continue her role as Director of Production for the broader MBC group alongside her new responsibilities.Having dedicated nearly three decades to MBC, Akrouk has been instrumental in overseeing the production of all non-scripted content for MBC TV channels, the streaming platform Shahid, and social media. Her portfolio includes successful local adaptations of popular shows such as Idol, Project Runway, Top Chef, The Voice, and X Factor. Additionally, she led the team behind the hit Arab musical film Sukkar.In her expanded role, Akrouk will concentrate on expanding MBC Studios' reach beyond Saudi Arabia and the Middle East, particularly targeting non-English-speaking markets. MBC Studios has recently made significant strides in original productions, boasting projects like the high-budget film "Desert Warrior" directed by Rupert Wyatt and featuring Anthony Mackie, as well as the notable regional project "HWJN". While the studio primarily focuses on Arabic-language content, it also incorporates English-language titles into its repertoire.Expressing her enthusiasm for the new position, Akrouk stated, “I am absolutely delighted and thrilled to take on the responsibilities of my new role as Managing Director of MBC Studios, building upon the exceptional achievements of the team so far. This role marks a significant milestone in my career, one which I have devoted to the MBC Group family since 1995.“Our forthcoming endeavors in drama and film production arrive at an opportune moment. There’s no doubt that our region, especially the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, is in the spotlight, drawing considerable interest from leading international production studios focused on creating world-class content. I cannot wait to delve deeper, roll up my sleeves, and further contribute to this incredible organization that I have called home for the past 27 years.”

Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort is delighted to announce the appointment of Karim Abdelhamid as the General Manager, responsible for overseeing the Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort. Karim is no stranger to Sofitel’s brand and has garnered over 25 years of rich experience in managing luxury and lifestyle properties globally. Sofitel Al Hamra is thrilled to welcome back Karim, who brings a wealth of expertise to the soon-to-be launched beach resort of Al Hamra.During his last assignment as Vice President of Hotel Operations at The First Group in Dubai, Karim has demonstrated exceptional leadership in driving operational success across the group’s diverse hotel portfolios. His remarkable skills from executing profitability strategies along with a strong track record of building and sustaining high-performing teams have led to the overall success of the group’s properties.Karim strength also lies in Food and Beverage operations, having, previously held positions overseeing Michelin-star venues and executing banquets held in large convention centers in the United States and the United Arab Emirates.Throughout his illustrious career, Abdelhamid has lent his expertise to renowned luxury and lifestyle hotels worldwide. His professional journey includes notable stints at iconic establishments such as The Plaza Hotel – A Fairmont Property, The Knickerbocker Hotel, and The Ritz Carlton Central Park in New York, as well as the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract in Egypt.His extensive experience also spans across luxury properties in Dubai, Philadelphia, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and Qatar as well as fostering operational excellence during his tenure at Intercontinental Festival City, a recognized flagship property in Dubai.Abdelhamid has also been instrumental in developing nine ultra-luxury hotels, including prestigious brands like Mandarin Oriental, Park Hyatt, and Capella. His unwavering commitment to guest satisfaction has consistently driven improvements year on year, ensuring the continued success and positioning of his properties.Karim Abdelhamid, General Manager of Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort says, “I am very honoured to return to the Sofitel brand and begin this new chapter as Sofitel marks their 60th Diamond Anniversary. Having previously worked with Sofitel Legend Old Cataract and Sofitel Philadelphia at Rittenhouse Square, I am thrilled to be leading an exceptional team of talents at Sofitel Al Hamra, setting new benchmarks in terms of bespoke experiences and extending the French luxury lifestyle and elegance alongside the Arabian spirit.”As General Manager, Karim Abdelhamid will play an essential role in shaping the soon-to-be opened Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort, a part of La Maison - Sofitel Legend, Sofitel, MGallery & Emblems. Ensuring that it remains a preferred destination for discerning travelers seeking unparalleled luxury and hospitality.

DXC Technology (NYSE: DXC), today announced the expansion of Kylie Watson’s role as the Head of Security for Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa in addition to her current role in Australia and New Zealand.With more than 30 years of experience in leading complex projects and teams, Watson is a highly experienced, innovative and outcome-focused cyber security leader with a proven track record of delivering results and transforming businesses for sustainable growth.Kylie will be responsible for helping DXC’s customers across the region enhance their cyber posture and protect them against threats with proactive advisory and managed security services - from threat intelligence through to compliance.“I am very excited to be joining a team with the right focus that boasts experience across multiple industries and geographies. I feel confident in our ability to deliver expert services and threat intelligence to our customers across their IT environment and operations, while spreading awareness on how to withstand security threats by using smart cyber resilience strategies”. Kylie said.Watson’s passion extends to driving cultural change, improving organisational culture, while welcoming and embracing diversity and inclusion. She has also won awards for coaching, mentoring and fostering innovation.Seelan Nayagam, President at DXC Technology for the Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa region extended his warm welcome saying, “Kylie is a great fit for not just her role but also the organisational culture that we have built here at DXC Technology, with her commitment and passion towards supporting and expanding diversity and inclusion initiatives which create environments where everyone can thrive”. Watson has previously held leadership positions in Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, and Thailand for SAP, Deloitte, PwC and IBM.

 MIRAMAX, the award-winning global film and television studio, has appointed Jonathan Glickman as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective immediately. In connection with the appointment of Glickman as MIRAMAX’s CEO, MIRAMAX also acquired certain film, television and other projects of Panoramic Media.  MIRAMAX is a joint venture between beIN MEDIA GROUP (‘beIN’) and Paramount Global and has a first-look deal with Paramount Pictures.Glickman, the former President of MGM (Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer) Motion Picture Group, founded the independent film and television production company Panoramic Media in 2022, where he previously served as its CEO.With over 25 years of experience in entertainment, Glickman has a strong track-record of creating premium and commercially successful new films and television from intellectual property (IP), with expertise spanning all content platforms. His deep knowledge of both traditional studios and streaming platforms makes him uniquely suited to lead MIRAMAX into its next chapter with plans to further exploit MIRAMAX’s legendary library, as well as continuing to produce new and original projects.Glickman has delivered some of the biggest hits of the past two decades, having produced more than 40 films including the Rush Hour franchise. As President of MGM Motion Picture Group, he oversaw the production of the three highest grossing installments in the James Bond franchise – Skyfall, Spectre, and No Time To Die – as well as the revival of the Rocky franchise with the Creed movie series, starring Michael B. Jordan.Through Panoramic Media, Glickman produced Creed 3, as well as the Emmy-nominated television series Wednesday, which is currently the second most watched English language show in Netflix’s history. Glickman is also the Executive Producer of Zero Day, a limited series political-thriller in production for Netflix starring Robert De Niro and Angela Bassett.Today’s announcement adds to a strong start to the year for MIRAMAX:The Holdovers receiving 5 Academy Award nominations and 7 BAFTA nominations.The Holdovers winning 1 Academy Award, 2 Golden Globes, 2 Critics Choice, 2 BAFTA awards and 3 Independent Spirit Awards.The Beekeeper grossing $150 million across 30 markets since its premiere in January.The Gentlemen series, which launched in March, is the #1 English-language program on Netflix.MIRAMAX’S library comprises over 700 titles, including 64 Academy Awards – notably 4 Best Pictures – Chicago, No Country For Old Men, The English Patient, and Shakespeare in Love, plus fan favorites including Pulp Fiction, Halloween, Scary Movie, Rounders, and Gangs of New York.Jonathan Glickman, CEO of MIRAMAX, said: “With its world-renowned library and the united desire from its shareholders to produce IP-based as well as original projects, MIRAMAX is uniquely placed to be the leading independent film and television studio for the years to come. I cannot wait to join MIRAMAX’s dedicated team, alongside my partners at beIN and Paramount Global, and continue this company’s tradition of creating unforgettable stories for film, TV and beyond.”Nasser Al-Khelaïfi, Chairman of beIN MEDIA GROUP, said: “We are proud how MIRAMAX has developed under our ownership into a leading independent movie and TV studio; and we are delighted to appoint Jonathan to continue this trajectory of growth and fantastic Award-winning success.“Jonathan’s leadership will see MIRAMAX broaden our already-extensive IP base and build upon our commitment to compelling original content. We will also focus on expanding MIRAMAX’s footprint across the globe, with local story-telling and production outside of Hollywood, across movies and series. Together with our partners at Paramount, we welcome Jonathan to the team and look forward to continued creativity, innovation and growth.”Brian Robbins, President and CEO, Paramount Pictures, said: “I’ve known and worked with Jonathan for over two decades and I couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome him in this new role. With his combination of creative and commercial instincts, he will undoubtedly build on MIRAMAX’s recent successes and deliver a new generation of iconic hit films and series. Under his leadership, MIRAMAX is poised to build on its incredible legacy of top-tier library properties, films, and television projects.  Along with our partners at beIN, we are confident in Jonathan’s ability to lead MIRAMAX into the future.” 

As part of its growth commitment in India, the Middle East and Africa (IMEA), Lubrizol is pleased to announce that Nitin Mengi will join the company as Vice President, Lubrizol Additives, IMEA as well as Chairman & Managing Director, Lubrizol India Private Limited. This appointment reinforces the organization’s commitment to strengthen its focus on growth in India while ensuring success with our customers, suppliers and other key stakeholders. In this role, Nitin will work with our customers in the region to propel growth for the company’s Additives’ business, serving transportation and industrial markets, and drive opportunities for customers across the region. He will also collaborate with Bhavana Bindra, who recently joined the team as Managing Director, Lubrizol IMEA to advance our strategy in the region. “Lubrizol has continued to advance its priorities throughout IMEA, adding to our regional leadership team will help accelerate our work,” said Flavio Kliger, SVP, President, Lubrizol Additives. “We are committed to growth in IMEA and supporting our customers with sustainable solutions that advance mobility, improve well-being and enhance modern life.” Nitin brings more than 20 years’ experience leading cross-functional teams in the gas and oils industry in several regions, including Asia Pacific, India, the Middle East and Africa. He received a Bachelor of Engineering degree from the Maharashtra Institute of Technology, with a focus in petroleum and petrochemicals. He also received an MBA from the Institute of Management Technology in Ghaziabad, India. “Lubrizol’s leadership in the industry is something I have known about and respected for some time. I’m delighted to now be part of the truly impressive plans for Lubrizol’s future,” Nitin said. Lubrizol continues to bolster its IMEA operations and capabilities, augmenting the company’s current capacity, commercial and technical capabilities. This includes a $150 Million investment in India to promote growth, most notably the construction of a new, state-of-the-art CPVC resin plant in Vilayat, India, which will be the world’s largest CPVC resin plant when operational in 2025 and a Global Capacity Center (GCC) in Pune, India, a strategic investment to support Lubrizol innovation in the region.

Al Yah Satellite Communications Company (ADX: YAHSAT), the UAE’s flagship satellite solutions provider, has announced the appointment of Amit Somani as Chief Growth and Strategy Officer.Mr. Somani, a veteran of the satellite communications industry, rejoins Yahsat with over 27 years of experience in satellite communications and management consulting. He already has extensive knowledge of Yahsat across various roles during his previous tenure with the company from 2010 to 2022. These included Vice President of Strategy and Business Development and most recently Chief Strategy Officer from 2014 to 2022.In his new leadership role with Yahsat, Mr. Somani will oversee the development and implementation of the company’s growth strategy in addition to spearheading its global strategic partnerships and alliances. This expanded position reaffirms Yahsat’s accelerated efforts to successfully implement its wider growth strategy. Mr. Somani’s expertise will be crucial in enabling the company to diversify its range of products and solutions while venturing into new emerging market segments and expanding its satellite capabilities.Ali Al Hashemi, Group Chief Executive Officer of Yahsat, said: "We would like to welcome Amit back into the Yahsat family. His appointment is part of Yahsat’s continuous efforts to attract the best talent from across the satellite communications industry who can help us deliver on our ambitious growth strategy. His in-depth knowledge of the satellite communications industry and his proven leadership capabilities will be crucial in advancing our goals.”Mr. Al Hashemi highlighted Mr. Somani’s active participation in implementing Yahsat's successful IPO and listing on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) in 2021, as an example of his ability to deliver exceptional results.Amit Somani, Chief Growth and Strategy Officer of Yahsat, said: "I am delighted to return to Yahsat and contribute to its ambitious mission of transforming the space industry in the UAE and the wider region. It is a pleasure to resume my journey with Yahsat and contribute to its growth, innovation, delivering exceptional solutions for its valued customers, building upon its strong foundations, strategic partnerships, and operational excellence."Mr. Somani will return to Yahsat in this new role on 1st April 2024, after a two-year stint as Chief Executive Officer of the UAE-based international hedge fund consortium, ABS Global.He holds an Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA) degree from the London Business School and a MEng. degree in Electrical Engineering, from the University of Nottingham, UK.

Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB), a leading financial institution, announced the appointment of Talha Karim as its new Group Chief Risk Officer. In his role as Group Chief Risk Officer, Mr. Karim will play a pivotal part in further strengthening ADIB’s risk management capabilities, ensuring the bank continues to proactively identify and manage risks while supporting its strategic objectives for sustainable growth and value creation.With over 25 years of experience in Risk Management in the banking sector, Talha has worked in both developed and emerging markets. He has led and implemented comprehensive and effective risk related frameworks, ensuring all risks are effectively managed within the defined risk appetite.Commenting on the appointment, Mohamed Abdelbary, Acting GCEO at ADIB, said: “We are delighted to welcome Talha to ADIB as our new Group Chief Risk Officer. His extensive experience, strategic acumen, and deep understanding of global risk dynamics will be invaluable as we navigate the evolving landscape of financial risk and regulatory requirements. I am confident that Talha will make significant contributions to our risk management framework and help drive ADIB’s continued success in delivering exceptional value to our customers and stakeholders.”Talha Karim expressed his enthusiasm for joining ADIB, stating: “I am honored to join ADIB, a pioneering institution renowned for its commitment to Islamic banking and excellence in risk management. I look forward to collaborating with the talented team at ADIB to further enhance the bank’s risk management capabilities and support its vision of becoming the world’s most innovative Islamic banks”.Prior to ADIB, Talha was associated with the Bank of Montreal in Canada and then joined Toronto Dominion Bank. He later moved to Bank ABC, Bahrain where he held various senior roles in Risk Management. In 2009, he joined CIB Egypt and held multiple positions including Chief Risk Officer & member of the Executive Committee.

 Consumer electronics leader, Sony Middle East and Africa, has appointed Jobin Joejoe as Managing Director. Recognising his outstanding contribution to its business operations, Jobin will lead the regional teams to advance Sony's global growth strategy and drive overall operational excellence.Jobin Joejoe’s tenure with Sony spans almost two decades. He joined Sony MEA in 2007, rapidly advancing from Country Sales Manager to Head of Sales, leading brand strategy and exceeding sales targets across the region. He was promoted to Deputy Managing Director in 2022 and has since played an instrumental role in driving growth and innovation across Sony’s consumer tech business in the region.Takakiyo Fujita, Area Sales Marketing Officer, Sony Asia, Middle East and Africa said: “I am delighted to announce that Jobin will take over the reigns as Managing Director, Sony MEA. Jobin will continue to deliver exceptional results, strengthen our operations and grow the business through his extensive market knowledge and experience of the MEA region. With his proven leadership in fostering high-performing teams, I am confident Jobin will propel Sony to new heights.”Joejoe is a key business leader in the region. He has been recognised by prestigious awards such as "CEO of the Year" by CEO Middle East magazine and "Forbes' Top Global Meets Local Executives" in 2023.“Sony MEA has continued to thrive in the region, thanks to our stellar team and valued partners,” said Jobin Joejoe. “I’m incredibly optimistic about the future we are building and look forward to carrying forward Sony’s mission of filling the world with emotion through the power of creativity and technology.”

The Public Relations and Communications Association Middle East & North Africa (PRCA MENA) has restructured its MENA Regional Board, a pivotal move aimed at fortifying strategic direction and industry representation in the MENA region.The MENA Regional Board serves as the guiding force behind PRCA MENA's initiatives, ensuring alignment with industry standards and fostering excellence in the field of public relations and communications. The restructured board brings together a diverse ensemble of esteemed industry leaders, poised to infuse their collective expertise and insights to propel the organisation to new heights. "We are delighted to unveil the restructuring of our MENA Regional Board, signifying our commitment to championing excellence and innovation in the public relations and communications landscape across the MENA region. The wealth of knowledge and experience brought forth by our board members will be instrumental in shaping the future trajectory of our organisation and advancing the profession as a whole,” remarked James Hewes, CEO of PRCA.The newly appointed members of the PRCA MENA Regional Board are:  Ahmad Itani, Founder & CEO, Cicero & Bernay Communication Consultancy. Chairman, PRCA MENA  Alexandre Beaulieu, Founder & CEO, TBWA DJAZ  Claire Micheletti, Founder & Joint Managing Director, Cosmopole Consultancy  Howard Kosky, CEO & Founder, Markettiers4DC  Ibrahim Al Mutawa, Co-founder and Managing Partner, Jummar PR  Imad Lahad, Managing Director, APCO Worldwide Dubai  John Rynehart, Managing Director, Seven Media  Joseph Nalloor, Discipline Lead - School of Communication, Murdoch University Dubai  Kamal Taibi, Founder & CEO, StratëusGroup  Khaled Alshehhi, Executive Director Marketing and Communications at UAE Government Media Office  Laureline Schwarz, Head of Global Corporate Communication, PR, Public Relations at Al-Futtaim Automotive  Louay Al Samarrai – Joint Managing Director, Co-Founder, Active (Digital. Marketing. Communications)  Natalie Amos, Managing Director - Lifestyle MENA at Four Agency  Natasha Hatherall-Shawe, Founder and CEO, TishTash Communications  Nick Sandham, Vice President, Corporate Communications, Alshaya Group  Petra B Spanko, Regional Director, Katch International  Samantha Bartel, CEO & Managing Partner, Instinctif Partners MENAThese professionals bring a rich tapestry of experiences and expertise to their roles, representing a diverse array of sectors and perspectives within the communications industry.

TBWA\RAAD announced the appointment of Catherine Bannister as its new Chief Strategy Officer, effective immediately.Bringing a wealth of experience to the role, Catherine will lead the strategic initiatives across TBWA\RAAD's diverse client portfolio. Her appointment underscores the agency's commitment to crafting holistic brand experiences and driving strategic growth opportunities for its clients.In her capacity, Catherine will collaborate closely with the strategy team, overseeing the development of disruptive strategies aimed at fostering growth and creativity. Her emphasis on leveraging advanced strategic thinking to deliver transformative ideas will further augment TBWA\RAAD's mission to provide unparalleled creative excellence and innovative solutions.Reda Raad, Group CEO at TBWA\RAAD, said: "We are thrilled to welcome Catherine to our leadership team. Her proven track record in leadership and strategic expertise make her an ideal fit for this role. With Catherine on board, we are poised to elevate our strategic capabilities, driving unprecedented success for our clients."Commenting on her appointment, Catherine added: "I am honored to join TBWA\RAAD's esteemed leadership team. The agency's commitment to excellence and its deep-rooted presence in the MENA region resonate with my own passion for the area. As a senior female leader, I am proud to contribute to an organization that has been recognized as one of the Best Workplaces for Women in the Middle East."With a distinguished career spanning various global leadership roles in the UK and Malaysia, Catherine brings extensive expertise in brand development, market expansion, and talent cultivation. Her tenure of four and a half years in the MENA region has equipped her with invaluable insights into regional dynamics, further enhancing her ability to deliver insightful strategic solutions.

Homegrown hospitality group EATX has appointed industry veteran Nick Comaty as Chief Operations Officer. With an impressive history of managerial excellence for some of the city’s most iconic destinations including Four Seasons, NAMMOS, Sky 2.0, SLS Dubai and most recently as Vice President of Operations and Development for Ennismore in the MEA, Nick is the ideal choice to take the reins as the brand continues to expand in the region.With 20 years of global experience in countries including the USA, Canada, Lebanon, Switzerland and the Middle East; Nick brings a dynamic approach to successful business execution in the hospitality sector, leaving a string of F&B success in his wake.In his new role, Nick will oversee EATX, and its 12 brands; most notably, The Guild in DIFC, Common Grounds, Hawkerboi and Byron Bather’s Club, spearheading the development of EATX in achieving its goal of becoming the leading hospitality group in the UAE and positioning the flagship brands as must visit destinations in Dubai for visitors and locals alike."I have long been an admirer of Tom Arnel and his EATX journey,” said Comaty. “It’s an exciting time to join a trailblazing homegrown group with their global expansion pipeline. The future is extremely exciting to work with the team to build upon the group’s outstanding reputation in Dubai and abroad".With several industry accolades under his belt including nominations in: Hotel & Catering News Middle East’s Hospitality Heavy-Weight of the Year and Caterer Middle East’s Restaurateur of the Year, in 2022s, it is with no doubt that Nick is set shake things up and take EATX to new heights.EATX, founded in 2013 by Tom Arnel, is now home to some of Dubai’s most loved and cherished brands, showcasing culinary excellence, entrepreneurship and expansion, this hospitality group shows no sign of slowing down.“We are really thrilled to have Nick on board with the EATX team as we gear up to take the company to the next level,” said Tom Arnel, EATX founder. “Nick’s extensive global hospitality experience along with his broad ranging talent and drive - will shape our vision for Dubai and beyond.”

Boopin, a leading digital media agency founded in 2011, unveils its ambitious strategic restructuring initiative aimed at solidifying its presence in the Middle East and driving expansion across Asia.With headquarters in Dubai and operational offices spanning Abu Dhabi, Riyadh, Cairo, Shanghai, Singapore, Bangalore, and Tirana, Boopin has established itself as the fastest-growing local and global digital media agency.The strategic restructuring initiative underscores Boopin's commitment to leveraging the increasing digitalization and opportunities in the Middle East and Asia. The agency aims to capitalize on these trends by appointing key personnel to spearhead its growth over the next five years.Razmik Kalaidjian, renowned for his expertise, assumes the role of Regional Managing Director, overseeing operations in Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Egypt. Meanwhile, Zeena Kurd, credited for her instrumental role in driving the agency's social business, steps into the role of General Manager for the UAE.In Saudi Arabia, Reine Hammoud takes charge as the General Manager, tasked with propelling business growth in the Kingdom, while Amir Tawaf assumes the role of General Manager for Boopin Egypt, focusing on unlocking market potential.Shadi Abdulhadi, Boopin's Founder and CEO, expressed enthusiasm about the strategic appointments, stating, "The collective expertise of the team and alignment with our growth goals announce an exciting new chapter as Boopin embarks on a transformative journey of expansion and innovation."Expanding its reach beyond the Middle East, Boopin strategically ventures into markets like Shanghai, Singapore, and India, aiming to diversify its geographical footprint and tap into new opportunities across the evolving digital landscape.The agency's expansion plans include establishing two additional offices in Jakarta and Manila in the second and fourth quarters of 2024, respectively, highlighting its strategic objectives for expansion and presence across key markets.Boopin's strategic restructuring and expansion plans signify a pivotal moment in the agency's journey, reflecting its commitment to emerge as the leading independent digital network in the region and exceed all expectations.

PubMatic, an independent technology company delivering digital advertising’s supply chain of the future, has appointed Sadia Akhter as Director, Advertiser Solutions, MENA. Akhter takes the helm as the primary commercial leader overseeing the buy-side clients as PubMatic advances its business in the region. Based in Dubai, Sadia will report directly to PubMatic’s Country Manager, Italy & MENA, Amélie Grenier-Bolay.“We are investing resources to support our clients in MENA further. And as a leader with deep experience in the industry, Akhter will help us consolidate our position in this market,” said Grenier-Bolay, Country Manager, Italy & MENA, PubMatic. “Sadia’s expertise in leading strategic initiatives that drive omnichannel trading and supply path optimization across multiple platforms and screens makes her an excellent candidate to achieve PubMatic’s growth goals in these areas.”Akhter comes to PubMatic with 20 years of experience in media and advertising in various leadership roles in sales, operations and client services. Before joining PubMatic, she held numerous commercial positions, including Co-Founder & MD at Sociallyz, Managing Director at FreakOut MENA, and Regional Managing Director at Addictive Mobility. As a result of significant investment in the region, PubMatic works with several local partners, including Rotana, Sky News Arabia, and Arabyads. Akhter will be responsible for developing these client relationships, besides growing the company’s client base and building innovative solutions that meet the needs of both advertisers and publishers. “Having experienced the evolution of media and advertising throughout my career, I am thrilled to help PubMatic expand our omnichannel offerings to a wider audience of media buyers and advertisers,” said Akhter.“PubMatic’s best-in-class technology, spanning CTV, online video, display, mobile, and new commerce media offering, combined with our dedicated team of experts, will help drive programmatic success. PubMatic has long been one of the biggest players in our industry in the global arena and, following the success of recent launches such as Activate — which puts buyers in control of their media buying strategy while simultaneously driving more revenue to publishers — I’m very much looking forward to growing the business and delivering the best value for our clients,” Akhter added.Commenting on the appointment, Cristian Coccia, Regional Vice President of Southern Europe & MENA at PubMatic, said, “Sadia’s appointment is a significant milestone in PubMatic’s ongoing expansion in the region. We are delighted to welcome Sadia to our EMEA team. Her impressive breadth of experience and industry relationships will be vital in accelerating our continuous growth.”

The Ritz-Carlton, Jeddah has appointed Peter Katusak-Huzsvar as its General Manager, effective immediately. A seasoned professional with an impressive track record in the industry, Peter brings with him a wealth of international hospitality expertise. Taking the helm of this iconic establishment, he is dedicated to crafting unforgettable experiences and further enhancing the renowned legacy of the Ritz-Carlton, Jeddah.Armed with a BSc in Hospitality Administration & Management from Corvinus University Budapest and an MSc in Business Administration & Management from the University of Pécs, Peter boasts an illustrious career that spans more than three decades.After commencing his career in Hungary, Peter has held pivotal roles in renowned hotels across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, culminating in his most recent role as the General Manager of W Dubai – The Palm and W Residences Dubai – The Palm, UAE, a position he assumed in August 2020. Prior to this, he held the role of General Manager at SO/Vienna in Austria, where he steered the property to excellence from January 2018 to July 2020.Peter’s leadership journey is marked by significant roles, including General Manager at W Dubai – Al Habtoor City, UAE, and W Guangzhou, China, while his versatility and unwavering commitment to excellence were notably showcased during his tenure as the General Manager – Task Force at Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel, Qatar. Additionally, his noteworthy tenure as the General Manager at W St. Petersburg, Russia, and Director of Operations at W Doha Hotel and Residences, Qatar, underscore his mastery in curating unparalleled experiences within the realm of luxury.Peter’s unwavering commitment to continuous professional development is unmistakable, demonstrated by his participation in seminars and training programs. Standout among these is his completion of the Finance360 for GMs program by eCornell, along with the Heartist Journey – Supertransformer Training, and the Value-Based Leadership Training, underscoring his steadfast dedication to staying abreast of industry best practices.Recognized as the General Manager of the Year – High-End Resort (top 10) by Hotelier Middle East in 2023, Peter was also included in Hotelier Middle East’s General Manager Power 100 List UAE for two consecutive years in 2021 and 2022, attesting to his profound impact in the regional hospitality landscape. Further accolades include the Stephen Garff, Marriott Award of Excellence for Culture and the Debbie Marriott Harrison Leader of the Year Award in 2022 and 2021, respectively. Fluent in Hungarian, German, and English, with proficiency in Italian and Russian, Peter brings a cosmopolitan perspective and linguistic finesse to his role. Serving as the key chair of the Marriott Business Council UAE Market-Driven Initiatives Council since January 2021 and the MBC UAE F&B Council since August 2020, Peter actively contributes to shaping industry initiatives.

The MediaVantage has announced the appointment of Joseph Karam as the General Manager of International Media.Bringing a wealth of experience to his new role, Karam is poised to lead media projects and drive strategic growth initiatives at The MediaVantage. With over 15 years of extensive experience garnered from leading agencies such as Magna Global and Mindshare, Karam boasts a stellar track record of working with global clients including Two Four 54, Atlantis the Palm, and Gulf Air.Notably, Karam's recent role in Bahrain overseeing operations for Mindshare underscores his commitment to the region and his adeptness in navigating diverse markets.Regarding the appointment, Manoj Khimji, Managing Director of The MediaVantage, expressed enthusiasm, stating: "We are thrilled to welcome Joseph Karam to The MediaVantage family. Joseph’s considerable expertise and track record of accomplishments make him an ideal candidate to oversee our international media offering. Joseph will play an important role in propelling our growth and delivering great results to our clients."Excited about his new role, Joseph Karam said: "I am very happy to be back in Dubai and thrilled to start this new chapter with The MediaVantage. While I have left the familiar agency life, I am finding myself more than ever involved and connected across the wider spectrum of agencies across the GCC. Having the opportunity to collaborate with our partners and clients to rightly position the Middle East on the global map mirrors a great desire TMV has for excellence and success."

Jumeirah Beach Hotel has appointed Rene Egle as the new General Manager. Bringing with him almost four decades of luxury hospitality and hotel operations experience, his appointment commencing 1 April 2024, is set to further strengthen the property’s commitment to excellence, at a time when the Jumeirah brand is evolving as part of its Mission 2030 strategy.In his new role, Rene will lead the property and apply his background of working at some of the world’s best-known hospitality brands in key global markets, to ensure Jumeirah Beach Hotel continues to provide exceptional experiences for its guests.His career highlights include more than 20 years at Shangri-La spanning numerous countries including China, Indonesia, UAE, Maldives, Mauritius, the Philippines, and Oman. During his extensive career, Rene also held leadership positions at Kempinski and Swissotel (A Raffles International Hotel) in Europe, China and South-East Asia.With strong commercial skills that balance the drive for revenue maximisation and expense management, Rene has a strong history of running successful international high-end hotel operations whilst creating unique and innovative guest experiences.Rene holds a Business Degree from the Business School of Vormbruck Freiburg, Germany. Passionate about digital marketing trends with a proven track record of creating innovative content driven campaigns, Rene is also a Graduate of the Google Squared Digital Marketing & Leadership Program 2018. He is an avid writer and published Author including 'Hotel Untold Stories I' and 'Hotel Untold Stories II Food & Beverage Private and Confidential.'Thomas Meier, Interim Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operating Officer of Jumeirah Group said: “We extend a warm welcome to Rene as General Manager at Jumeirah Beach Hotel, our flagship property in Dubai. His vast global experience working with luxury hospitality brands across the world will be invaluable in supporting Jumeirah towards our Mission 2030 goals of elevating the luxury experience in key markets across the region.”Rene Egle said: “It is an honour to join the iconic Jumeirah Beach Hotel as General Manager and I look forward to bringing my global expertise to the role. This appointment represents a remarkable opportunity to contribute to the legacy of one of Jumeirah's most prestigious resorts. As the Jumeirah brand continues to evolve, I am committed to delivering exceptional experiences to our guests.”

Sandstone Media, a forward-thinking integrated communications firm based in Dubai, recently announced its partnership with Money Plant, Dubai’s premier real estate brokerage, to manage its communications account.The partnership seeks to elevate Money Plant's brand visibility in the region, solidify its position as a thought leader and amplify its presence in the real estate media sphere.Expressing enthusiasm about the partnership, Anand Rai, Founder & Managing Partner for Sandstone Media said, "Sandstone Media is committed to redefining the communications landscape by seamlessly integrating traditional and digital strategies. This partnership represents our commitment to delivering innovative communication solutions to businesses in the UAE.""The Dubai market is known for its fast-paced and dynamic nature. With this partnership, we are excited to establish and expand our presence, leveraging the innovative strategies to not only increase our visibility but showcase our uniqueness to everyone.", said the Money Plant board.This partnership underscores Sandstone Media's dedication to excellence in integrated marketing and its continued growth and success in the communications industry.

Saatchi & Saatchi has appointed Ali Zein as the Executive Creative Director for the e& account. In this pivotal role, Ali will spearhead the creative endeavours of the brand, driving innovation and forward-thinking strategies to propel e& as a leading global tech player.“Ali's wealth of experience in advertising and deep understanding of e& positions him perfectly for this role. His time with the brand has offered invaluable insights we're excited to leverage. With Ali joining us, we're primed to elevate what we do for the brand and push the envelope of creativity”, said Bassel Kakish, CEO, Publicis Groupe Middle East & Turkey.Ali has joined from Impact BBDO, where he served as regional executive creative director. He first started his career nearly 25 years ago as an Arabic copywriter and evolved his career in advertising working with top brands like Vodafone, Nestle Ice Cream, Lipton, Shell and CIB, Pepsi, Rotana TV, Barclays and EFG Hermes. His work has been recognised on several prestigious stages including Cannes, Clio, One Show, Epica, Effie's and Dubai Lynx.Commenting on his appointment, Ali stated, "I'm thrilled to be joining this fantastic team at Saatchi & Saatchi. I'm particularly drawn to their culture of prioritising employees and tackling the e& account represents a valuable professional challenge and goal”. 

In the ever-evolving landscape of marketing technology, the global powerhouse Ogilvy is taking a bold step forward with its announcement of new global leadership for Ogilvy One and innovative services aimed at fostering more valuable relationships in the digital age.Kent Wertime, a veteran within the Ogilvy ranks with nearly 25 years of experience, has been appointed as the Global Chief Executive Officer of Ogilvy One. His leadership heralds a new era for the company, emphasizing the fusion of creativity, data, and AI to craft personalized experiences that resonate with consumers on a deeper level.Under Wertime's guidance, Ogilvy One will consolidate its position as the global brand for both current and next-generation customer experience and relationship service offerings. This move signifies Ogilvy's commitment to providing comprehensive solutions for clients seeking to build lasting connections with their customers.Joining Wertime in this endeavor is a seasoned leadership team comprising industry experts such as Roberto Fara, Rajesh Midha, Clare Lawson, Ab Gaur, Mauro Caggiano, Jason Davey, Ravi Pal, and Nate McNabb. Together, they bring a wealth of experience and expertise to drive Ogilvy One's mission forward.Ogilvy One's comprehensive suite of services encompasses customer acquisition, service design, continuous commerce, CRM, and loyalty programs, all underpinned by a unified global technology backbone. This backbone, powered by Verticurl, enables Ogilvy One to deliver seamless and impactful experiences across various touchpoints.Devika Bulchandani, Global CEO of Ogilvy, said: “When David Ogilvy first started talking about direct marketing decades ago, he recognized that some of the most effective marketing isn’t just directed at your target audience, it speaks to them on a personal one-to-one basis. Now we take that to a new level with a fresh leadership team for Ogilvy One and a commitment to designing relationships based on ideas that create enduring value exchanges between consumers and our clients’ brands.”“Over the last decade, companies invested heavily in technology, but that alone is not the solution. In today’s hyper-commoditized world, brands need to design relationships that create differentiation and relevancy with their consumers. That’s where the exponential power of creativity plays a vital role,” Kent Wertime, Global CEO of Ogilvy One, said. “Today's consumers, choose their points of interaction with brands, from discovery to purchase, and dictate more of the relationship. With a deep understanding of brands and full-dimensional view of consumers coupled with award-winning creativity and a strong data and technology backbone, Ogilvy One is uniquely positioned to design valuable relationships for brands that are impactful, relevant, and enduring.”As companies worldwide navigate the complexities of modern marketing, Ogilvy's visionary approach to relationship marketing sets a new standard for the industry. With Kent Wertime at the helm, Ogilvy One is poised to lead the charge in delivering personalized, relevant, and impactful experiences that drive business growth and brand loyalty in the digital age.

 ME Dubai, the luxurious hotel located in Business Bay, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Uzmaa Patel as the new Director of Sales and Marketing. As a seasoned professional with over 13 years of experience in the hospitality industry, she brings with her a wealth of knowledge and rich expertise to ME Dubai.Hailing from London, Uzmaa’s career began in 2009, where she took on pivotal roles in revenue management with Hilton, focusing on the rebranding from a Ramada Jarvis to Doubletree By Hilton. Building on her skillset and her commitment to growing, her career blossomed as she stepped into the roles of Director of Sales at The Tower Hotel London and Dreamhouse Studios before venturing into the UAE, where she served as Director of Sales at Park Inn by Radisson Motor City Dubai and Radisson Dubai Damac Hills. With distinguished specialisations in all aspects of commercial strategy, including sales, revenue management, and marketing within the hospitality sector, her journey then led her to return to the UK, where she served as Director of Sales and Events at the prestigious five-star Nobu Hotel London.Now, in her role as Director of Marketing & Sales at ME Dubai, Uzmaa Patel leverages her extensive experience and strategic insight to drive the hotel's sales and marketing efforts to new heights.“As a woman leading this remarkable hotel, which owes its iconic design to a female architect, my commitment to championing the role of women in our industry is especially close to me. It is with great pleasure that we welcome Uzmaa to the team, bringing with her an impressive background alongside a wealth of experience. I am confident that she will not only excel in her role as Director of Sales & Marketing, but also propel ME Dubai to unparalleled success.” – Elsa Lahoude, General Manager at ME DubaiPairing her leadership skills with her proven track record and innovative approach to marketing and sales, it is no doubt that ME Dubai will continue to be a beacon of excellence and innovation in the competitive Dubai hospitality landscape with Uzmaa Patel’s strategic vision.

Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, The Palm, Dubai, announces the appointment of Nayan Seth as its new General Manager. With over three decades of experience in the hospitality industry, Nayan brings a wealth of expertise and leadership to his new role. Beginning his career with IHCL at Taj Mahal, New Delhi, Nayan has steadily climbed the ranks, showcasing remarkable dedication and talent. His journey includes pivotal roles at esteemed properties such as the Taj Mahal Palace & Tower, Mumbai, and Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur, India. In Nayan’s most recent assignment, he served as General Manager of the Taj Palace, New Delhi. As the new General Manager of Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, The Palm, Dubai, Nayan Seth is poised to lead the property towards continued excellence. With a focus on strategic direction, operational efficiency, and revenue optimization, Nayan aims to uphold the resort's status as a premier luxury destination in Dubai. Nestled on the iconic Palm Jumeirah, Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, The Palm, Dubai, offers an unparalleled blend of luxury and tranquillity. Boasting breath-taking views of the Arabian Gulf, the resort features opulent accommodations, world-class amenities, and an array of dining options showcasing international flavours and culinary delights. From its pristine private beach to its rejuvenating holistic wellness experiences, Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, The Palm, Dubai, promises an unforgettable retreat for discerning travellers seeking indulgence and relaxation. "Expressing his excitement about his new role, Nayan Seth stated, "I am honoured to join the team at Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, The Palm, Dubai. Along with the team, I am eager to leverage my experience and passion to ensure the sustained success and growth of this magnificent property." As a seasoned hotelier, Nayan is committed to enhancing the guest experience by delivering personalized service with meticulous attention to detail, while creating memorable moments that guests may cherish and reminisce for years to come. In the fiercely competitive landscape of the UAE hospitality industry, Nayan’s goal is to solidify Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, The Palm, Dubai, as the ultimate choice for travellers seeking unparalleled luxury and hospitality. With an ambition of driving revenue, fostering relationships, and spearheading innovative initiatives, Nayan Seth is well-equipped to steer Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, The Palm, Dubai, to unprecedented levels of excellence. 

Huawei, a global leader in ICT solutions, is pleased to announce the appointment of Derek Hao as the President of the Enterprise Business Group (EBG) for the Middle East and Central Asia (ME&CA) Region, effective immediately.In his new role, Hao will be responsible for leading the strategic direction of Huawei's enterprise business in the ME&CA region, driving growth, and fostering digital transformation across various industries. With a wealth of experience in marketing, product and solution sales, and business management, Hao brings a proven track record of success to this key leadership position.Prior to his appointment as EBG President for ME&CA, Hao served as the President of Global Marketing at Huawei Enterprise Business Group, overseeing marketing activities worldwide. His contributions to the success of the enterprise business in the Asia Pacific, Southeast Asia regions have been instrumental in Huawei's global expansion.Steven Yi, President of Huawei Middle East & Central Asia expressed confidence in Hao's ability to lead the Enterprise Business Group in the ME&CA region, saying, "We are thrilled to welcome Derek Hao to this crucial role. His extensive experience, strategic vision, and passion for business transformation make him the ideal leader to drive our enterprise business forward in the Middle East and Central Asia."Hao joined Huawei in 2005. Throughout his career, he has played pivotal roles in Huawei's business development, earning recognition for his outstanding contributions to the company's success.Speaking about his new role, Derek Hao said, "I am honored to take on the role of President of the Enterprise Business Group in the ME&CA region. Huawei's commitment to innovation and intelligent transformation aligns with the evolving needs of businesses in this dynamic region. I look forward to working closely with our partners and customers to create new value together across various industries and further drive the growth of our Enterprise Business Group and contribute to the digitalization of the Middle East and Central Asia."As Huawei continues to focus on bringing digital to every person, home and organization for a fully connected and intelligent world, Hao is poised to spearhead the efforts in embracing new ICT technologies to pursue technological innovation in various domains, fostering collaborations with customers and partners to accelerate industrial intelligence and transform the digital economy into an intelligent one.Today, over 700 cities and 267 Fortune Global 500 companies have chosen Huawei as their digital transformation partner, and Huawei’s EBG now works with more than 38,000 service and operation partners around the world.

UM MENAT has announced the promotion of James Dutton to Chief Product Officer and Mohammad Mannaa to CEO of KSA. These appointments, part of a strategic move to bolster its leadership team, signify UM MENAT's commitment to driving innovation and growth across the region.James Dutton, who previously served as Regional Director – Digital, will now spearhead UM's product roadmap and delivery initiatives. His focus will be on enhancing client solutions, digital services, and global partnerships to drive client growth. Dutton's remit includes expanding specialist service areas such as international client expansion, gaming, and AI solutions development.Commenting on his new role, James Dutton said: “The media industry is moving faster than ever, and so I’m very excited to be expanding my remit into helping UM and our clients navigate the complex media, data, and technology solutions available in achieving growth goals through the development and expansion of our extensive product solutions. More than ever, we need to look how automation is playing more of a role in media deployment and optimisation, to understand how to make decisions that really matter in media.”   Mohammad Mannaa, formerly the Managing Director of KSA, will now lead UM's growth agenda in the Kingdom, focusing on technology, innovation, and performance across various portfolios. This strategic move aligns with UM MENAT's vision for significant expansion in Saudi Arabia in 2024 and beyond.Mohammad Mannaa highlighted his excitement to lead the talented team in Saudi Arabia. He said: “Together, we are committed to collaborating with clients and partners to deliver impactful campaigns that resonate globally. Our focus is on pushing boundaries, elevating brands, and shaping the future of media through innovative storytelling, while leveraging cutting-edge technology.”Joe Nicolas, CEO of UM MENAT, praised the expertise and leadership demonstrated by James and Mohammad, sharing: “As we navigate the evolving media landscape, we remain steadfast in our mission to not only adapt, but thrive in the face of change. Both James & Mohammed have continuously proven their expertise and leadership in driving innovation and building capabilities. With these newly established roles, we are poised to deliver exceptional value to our clients across the region.”With these strategic promotions, UM MENAT reaffirms its dedication to driving innovation, delivering impactful campaigns, and shaping the future of media in the MENA region and beyond.

Jumeirah Group officially announced the appointment of Nader Neishabouri as General Manager of the Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa, Kuwait. Following an impressive three-month tenure as Hotel Manager, Neishabouri’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment as he continues to build on the success of the property while continuing to deliver exceptional experiences to guests in Kuwait.With over 13 years of experience in luxury hospitality and hotel operations across key global markets, Neishabouri is well-equipped to drive operational excellence and innovative service at the Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa. His career spans flagship properties in London, where he excelled in both rooms and F&B operations before assuming the position of Director of Operations in 2017. Since joining Jumeirah Group in August 2022 as Hotel Manager at Jumeirah Lowndes Hotel, Nader has made a significant impact on the F&B services, revenue, and operations.Thomas Meier, Interim Chief Executive Officer of Jumeirah Group, spoke of the new appointment: “Nader’s promotion to General Manager at Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa is testament to our commitment to promoting talent from within the organisation. His extensive experience in luxury hospitality, combined with a proven track record of enhancing guest satisfaction and operational success, aligns with our Mission 2030 goals of elevating the luxury experience in key markets across the region. Nader’s role will be instrumental in driving the growth and reputation of Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa and we are confident in his ability to lead the team towards achieving these ambitions as we welcome him in this new chapter.”In response to his appointment, Nader Neishabouri said: “I am honoured to step into the role of General Manager at Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa. This appointment represents an incredibleopportunity to contribute to the legacy of one of Kuwait’s remarkable luxury resorts. As the Jumeirah brand continues to evolve, I am committed to leveraging my experience to further our mission of delivering exceptional experiences to our guests.”Neishabouri's leadership has already led to significant achievements at Jumeirah’s Kuwait property, including the introduction of innovative concepts such as 'Dineamation' at Pepper restaurant, enhancing the dining experience with culinary art and technology. Under Nader's leadership, Talise Spa at Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa was also honoured with the Forbes Travel Guide Five Star Rating for 2024, placing the spa among the world's best.

Rodrigo Leal Rodrigues, an applauded name in the creative industry, has joined Publicis One Touch as its new Executive Creative Director. Integrated within Saatchi & Saatchi in the region, Publicis One Touch is a bespoke “Power of One” agency solution, jointly developed by Publicis Groupe and Beiersdorf for NIVEA. The agency is dedicated to the next digital transformation and interdisciplinary design for the Emerging Global Markets of NIVEA. In this new role, Rodrigo will be responsible for driving the creative vision and cultural impact of this iconic brand.“The beauty and skincare industry like most other sectors are embracing the latest technology to give their customers a more tailor-made approach to beauty and NIVEA is at the centre of it all, we are so glad to have someone like Rodrigo, a visionary creative whose expertise will help us drive growth for the brand’s key emerging markets and continue growing their legacy”, said Bassel Kakish, CEO of Publicis Groupe Middle East & Turkey.  “The beauty and skincare industry like most other sectors are embracing the latest technology to give their customers a more tailor-made approach to beauty and NIVEA is at the centre of it all, we are so glad to have someone like Rodrigo, a visionary creative whose expertise will help us drive growth for the brand’s key emerging markets and continue growing their legacy”, said Bassel Kakish, CEO of Publicis Groupe Middle East & Turkey.  Before joining Publicis Groupe ME, Rodrigo served as Executive Creative Director at Horizon FCB Dubai, collaborating with major brands such as Clorox, VISA, DHL, Coca-Cola ARENA, Citibank. His work has garnered numerous prestigious awards, including Cannes Lions, D&AD, One Show, Clio, LIA, Effie, and Dubai Lynx. In 2023, Rodrigo served as a Cannes Lions Festival Juror in the Industry Craft category.Rodrigo said: “NIVEA is an incredible, iconic brand with a rich legacy. I feel privileged to be leading the creatives for Publicis One Touch - Emerging Markets where we create work for over 70 markets. With a team and client that is diverse, agile, and passionate, I know together we are creating a new chapter in NIVEA’s legacy — one that touches more hearts than ever before. Over the past few months I’ve learned that diversity and a collective spirit of ambition allows us to elevate our work and create new standards in global communication with strong cultural nuances. Leading creative teams in Dubai and Budapest with hubs around the world allows me to gain enriching perspectives that will drive us to break new grounds with NIVEA”.

Saudi Arabia: Kyndryl, the world’s largest IT infrastructure services provider, has announced Pieter (Piet) W. Bil as Senior Vice President, Managing Director for Kyndryl Middle East and Africa (MEA). The appointment underscores the company’s commitment to help our MEA customers modernize and manage their mission-critical systems by taking advantage of emerging technologies to drive innovation for their businesses.Pieter has been Senior Vice President and Managing Partner at Kyndryl, where he has managed some of the company’s largest customer relationships. Pieter is an experienced leader with a proven history of leading complex IT transformation projects for customers across different industries including financial services, electronics and manufacturing, and helping them innovate with cloud and AI. In his 30+ year career, he has held a number of management and executive positions in services focusing on complex deals and business development across the United States, Europe and Australia for global multinational companies. Originally from the Netherlands, Pieter earned an MBA from the Open University London Business School as well as a degree in Information Technology from the Technical University of Groningen in the Netherlands. He also holds a Certification as Board member of the University of Nyenrode in the Netherlands and an executive degree in “Leading Client Centric Growth” from the Wharton Business School at the University of Pennsylvania in the United States.

Tahir Kheshgi, renowned for his strategic prowess and transformative leadership, has announced his new role as Digital Director at Home of Performance. This transition marks a pivotal moment in Kheshgi's esteemed career, having previously held influential positions at Americana Restaurants.With nearly 15 years of diverse experience, Kheshgi has consistently demonstrated his ability to spearhead impactful strategies that elevate brand presence and drive consumer engagement. His leadership philosophy, characterized by a blend of recognition, responsibility, and data-driven insights, has consistently delivered tangible results across various market segments.During his tenure as Head of Marketing at Americana Restaurants, Kheshgi orchestrated a paradigm shift by consolidating multiple brands into a cohesive digital marketing framework. This initiative not only optimized ROI but also positioned the company as a leader in market efficiency and agility. Prior to this, Kheshgi played a pivotal role in driving turnaround initiatives at Philips, where his strategic interventions resulted in significant revenue gains and improved market positioning.Kheshgi's diverse background, which includes roles at Dairy Crest and Mars Chocolate, underscores his proficiency in customer satisfaction, market analysis, and financial planning. His appointment at Home of Performance is poised to further strengthen the company's digital footprint and drive sustainable growth.

The Board of the Arab International Women’s Forum has appointed Dr Lamya Fawwaz to the Board of the Arab International Women’s Forum.Dr Lamya Fawwaz is the Executive Director of Brand and Strategic Initiatives at Masdar, director of the Zayed Sustainability Prize and program director of the UAE-led Women in Sustainability, Environment and Renewable Energy (WiSER) initiative, an institutional partner of AIWF since 2021.On the appointment of Dr Fawwaz to the AIWF Board, HE Mona Al Moayyed, Chair of the AIWF Executive Committee, said: ‘We are delighted to welcome Dr Lamya Fawwaz to the Board of AIWF at such a pivotal time for AIWF. Dr Lamya is an exceptional woman leader and a true inspiration to women aspiring to STEM and sustainability leadership in the Arab world and globally. We are proud and honoured to have her on the Board and to be able to count on her support and expertise in helping to steer AIWF’s work in the coming years to support women and young leaders in climate action, sustainability and energy innovation.”Dr Lamya Fawwaz, Executive Director for Brand & Strategic Initiatives, Masdar, Program Director of WiSER, said: “I look forward to building on WiSER’s impactful partnership with the Arab International Women’s Forum (AIWF) through this appointment to the Board of AIWF. Together, we are committed to amplifying women’s voices and fostering their leadership to drive climate action. Following the historic UAE Consensus reached at COP28, we must take forward the mandate for action, placing women and young leaders at the heart of progress on climate solutions. We will continue to champion the many women around the world who are entrepreneurs, innovating new technologies, and leading the global mission to tackle climate change.”AIWF has worked closely with WiSER and Masdar – based in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – since signing a Memorandum of Understanding on International Women’s Day 2021, collaborating on initiatives to champion women entrepreneurs in the green economy and more recently, on a highly successful conference held at the Royal Academy of Engineering in London held in May 2023 titled ‘On the Road to COP28: Women-led innovation in climate, sustainability and STEM’. The conference was co-chaired by AIWF President & Founder Haifa Al Kaylani OBE and Dr Fawwaz, and produced an impactful report and recommendations amplifying the COP28 agenda in the context of SDG5. A follow up AIWF x WiSER conference is planned to take place in London in June 2024, designed to explore strategies for taking forward the action agenda of the UAE Consensus placing women and young leaders at the heart of progress on climate and the SDGS in the MENA and globally.Dr Fawwaz has been a long-time supporter of AIWF, which was founded by Haifa Al Kaylani in London in 2001 as a leading development organisation dedicated to the empowerment and inclusion of women and youth in the MENA and internationally. Dr Fawwaz is the fourth Emirati woman leader to serve on the Board of AIWF, following HE Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi (AIWF Founder Board member, former UAE Minister of State for Tolerance, Minister of State for International Cooperation, and former Minister of Economic and Planning); HE Dr Raja Al Gurg (Managing Director of Easa Saleh Al Gurg Group and Chair of the Dubai Business Women Council); and HE Dr Shaikha Al Maskari (Chair of Al Maskari Holding and Tricon Group).

FeatureMind, a leading provider of digital solutions within the retail environment, today announced that Abdulbasit Abubakar has joined the company as the Head of the Mulesoft Practice for the business and the Co-Managing Director of the Nigerian arm of FeatureMind. With this strategic move, FeatureMind reinforces its commitment to driving transformation and agility through Mulesoft integration solutions.Based in Dubai, Abdulbasit Abubakar brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his new role, including a deep understanding of the critical importance of data in delivering strategic projects. His focus will also include building and managing high-performing teams for Mulesoft implementations while supporting the growth of partnerships with Salesforce, Mulesoft, Akeneo and other leading providers.As Head of Mulesoft Practice, Abdulbasit aims to work closely with customers to support their strategic goals, providing expertise and insight to realise their vision. Additionally, he will focus on scaling the Nigerian team and expanding the Mulesoft practice to meet the market's growing demands.Onur Tepeli, Chief Executive Officer at FeatureMind, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Abdulbasit to the team. This appointment underscores our dedication to servicing our clients in the region to high standards, backed by extensive expertise and proven excellence. Abdul's comprehensive understanding and strategic approach to our Mulesoft practice will greatly benefit our company and customers. We eagerly anticipate his continued leadership in driving growth and innovation, further solidifying our commitment to delivering exceptional service and results to our valued clientele.”Abdulbasit Abubakar, Head of the Mulesoft Practice for the business and the Co-Managing Director, Nigeria at FeatureMind, also shared his thoughts on his new role: “Joining FeatureMind is an exciting opportunity that perfectly aligns with my passion for digital transformation. Our focus on agility, data empowerment, and talent development reflects our commitment to driving meaningful change. I look forward to scaling our Mulesoft practice, expanding the Nigerian team, and advancing FeatureMind's Academy. With the support of our talented team and clients, I'm confident we'll continue to drive innovation and deliver exceptional value.”In addition to his role as the Mulesoft practice lead, Abdulbasit will accelerate the development of FeatureMind's academy in Nigeria, with more announcements expected later in the year. FeatureMind will also sponsor the Salesforce World Tour to showcase its capabilities in May.

Abu Dhabi: Al Maryah Retail Company (AMRC), operator of leading lifestyle destination The Galleria Al Maryah Island, has announced a leadership transition following five years of dedicated service by David Robinson, who has stepped down from his role as Chief Executive Officer. Retail sector expert, Mark Ruffley, will join as AMRC’s new CEO as of 01 March 2024.Mark brings to AMRC a wealth of experience spanning over 25 years in the retail and mixed-use property sector. Throughout his career with leading retail and development groups, he has overseen the development and management of over 280 shopping malls and mixed-use assets in eight countries, including the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, South Africa, Bahrain, Oman, Egypt and Saudi Arabia. Mark’s impressive portfolio encompasses the stewardship of more than 10,000 tenants and over five million square metres of rentable space, underscoring his profound impact on the industry.Mark has held prominent leadership positions over the years, serving as the Managing Director of Mall Advisory Services, GCC, and as the Executive Director of Malls for Nakheel in the UAE. He has also been responsible for the conceptual design, development, leasing, and opening of 22 new malls and mixed-use properties. Additionally, he spearheaded the revitalisation of 55 projects across multiple countries, demonstrating his expertise in strategic management and project execution.Among his notable achievements was the instrumental role he played in the success of The Mall of the Emirates in Dubai, which was recognised as the ‘World’s Best Mall’ during his tenure at Majid Al Futtaim.Al Maryah Retail Company is a retail management company established by Mubadala Investment Company, offering services such as asset management, property management, investment management, and leasing services for The Galleria Al Maryah Island – Abu Dhabi’s leading lifestyle destination.

Emerging Travel Group, a global travel company operating the RateHawk, ZenHotels, and Roundtrip brands, has made a senior-level appointment to its direct supply development team. Simone Large joins the company as the Head of Direct Supply. In her new role, Simone will be responsible for the company's hotel and lodging strategy development, consolidating a team of over 50 professionals. Based in Alicante, Simone will leverage her expertise to forge hotel partnerships globally.In her travel industry career spanning over two decades, Simone has held senior positions in destination management, business development and partnership building in companies including Dnata Travel Group and W2M.Felix Shpilman, CEO of Emerging Travel Group, commented: “Aiming to provide our customers with the broadest supply choice possible, our longstanding strategy focused on consolidating numerous wholesalers and contracting hotels directly. While we have mastered working with suppliers unlike anyone else in the market, we strategically shifted towards developing direct connections in the European and Middle Eastern regions. In 2023 these efforts led to a remarkable 32% growth in directly contracted accommodations, reaching a total of 90,000 properties. Simone’s strong travel industry background, deep industry knowledge and extensive experience that she brings to the company will undoubtedly accelerate our growth further.”Commenting on her new role, Simone Large said: “I am excited to join the ambitious team of Emerging Travel Group during this pivotal time and to lead the Direct Supply division. We are fostering collaboration with hoteliers willing to access tailor-made distribution across the Group’s multiple platforms. I look forward to applying my expertise to drive the company's growth and long-term value.”Emerging Travel Group (ETG) consolidates a total inventory of over 2.5 million options, with 90,000 of them being connected directly through the company’s proprietary extranet system. By connecting to the ETG’s extranet, hoteliers and property owners can leverage the distribution channels across all ETG’s brands, including platforms designed for individual travelers (ZenHotels), travel agents and industry professionals (RateHawk), and business travelers (Roundtrip). The Group’s platforms are used by over 10 million B2C consumers and 100,000 B2B customers. To provide greater visibility among target audiences, the company offers the Top Stays program for directly contracted properties. Additionally, the Group collaborates with the majority of channel managers in the market, empowering property owners to manage their distribution seamlessly.In 2023, Emerging Travel Group achieved a gross transaction value of $2.6 billion. The company employs more than 2,800 people in 80 countries. The company has offices in Wilmington, London, Berlin, Milan, Lisbon, Warsaw, Dubai and Limassol.

Zenith ME, a leading media agency under Publicis Groupe Middle East, has appointed Alina Waite as its newest Business Lead. In her new role, Alina will be responsible for delivering best-in-class strategies to clients that allow the agency to create innovative and stand-out work. In addition, she will also elevate the marketing and growth initiatives for the agency across the region. Alina has more than eighteen years of global marcomms experience working in agencies both in London and Dubai. Her career has stretched across some of the world’s strongest global brands including Coca-Cola, Nike, Disney, and Chanel. For the past 6 years, she has been leading Johnson and Johnson (now Kenvue) across Africa, the Middle East and Turkey. In addition to that she also successfully led major accounts like Spotify, Coca-Cola, Alshaya and First Abu Dhabi Bank. Her expertise in team development and global collaboration, coupled with her ability to understand diverse market agendas, sets her apart. Alina attributes much of her leadership style to her experience with the Marketing Academy Scholarship, which she secured among hundreds of applicants early in her career. Commenting on the appointment Firas El Zein, CEO, Zenith ME, said: “Alina comes with a solid media background and is known for her expertise and vast experience in the industry. As the overall media landscape is evolving in both complexity and opportunity, with someone like Alina onboard strategising and driving innovation, I’m confident that we will deliver greater value to our clients”.   “I am thrilled to join Zenith and already feel warmly welcomed into the family. I'm excited about the opportunity to contribute to the agency's growth, further develop our unique strategic approach, and leverage innovation to help our clients exceed their goals," said Alina Waite, Business Lead, Zenith ME.