Secret PR makes new appointment

Secret PR welcomes Habiba Taleb to the role of Arabic Communications Specialist. With over ten years of experience in media and communications, Habiba previously worked with Radio Msila and most recently with Al Riyadh newspaper as a Correspondent. In her new role, she will work closely with the team to enhance their Arabic capabilities and initiate the move towards an independent Arabic division.

“The demand for Arabic talent is ever growing, especially with regards to Arabic content,” says Sarah Mohamed, Director, Secret PR. “We are proud to have Habiba on our team as she will certainly help us enhance our Arabic capabilities to better serve PR agencies and in-house PR departments across the region.”

Louna Media Solutions launches in Dubai

Production agency, Louna Vision has launched its operations in Dubai as Louna Media Solutions (LMS). Located in Barsha Heights, LMS offers creative TV and animation production solutions as well as digital services including web development, online marketing, search engine optimisation and app design.

“Owning the international copyrights to over 29 game show concepts and a fully equipped production house, LMS is completely capable of undertaking all your production needs,” says Mark O’Hara, Managing Director, Louna Media Solutions. “Being in the industry for the past 15 years in three different countries servicing over 300 clients, LMS brings its expertise to the UAE. Our mission is to the make LMS one of the largest production houses in the UAE by 2020.”

Meltwater launches new division

Global media intelligence platform, Meltwater has launched a new agency partnership division. Led by Meltwater EMEA’s Mohamed El Wardani, the new division will focus more on agency-specific support and intelligence solutions.

“This is a new initiative for Meltwater globally and we are delighted that our Middle East operations is pioneering this. It shows our commitment to this region and also the importance that agencies are placing on social media and online news monitoring analytical tools,” says Zubair Timol, Partner & Area Director for India, Middle East & Africa, Meltwater. “Mohamed El Wardani’s appointment as Managing Director of this marquee operation is an investment based on the market potential and increased relevance of online, social and digital data for today’s business decision maker. Mohamed brings a wealth of agency experience and his role will help us create our flagship agency operation across EMEA.”

Mohamed El Wardani, Managing Director, Meltwater agency partnership division adds, “We are working with some of the leading names in PR, digital and advertising in the region. With the launch of this new division, we will focus more on enhancing this partnership to bring the latest media intelligence solutions to the market, offer agency specific support and referral programs. I look forward to leading this initiative.”

Arab News launches revamped website

Saudi Arabian daily newspaper Arab News has re-launched its website with a new design that offers enhanced usability and functionality. The revamped website includes a clearer layout with an opinion section, world news and business reports, as well as a spotlight section featuring key issues in the region and in foreign news.

House of Comms makes new appointment

House of Comms has appointed Sarah Doyle to the role of Account Executive. With experience in fashion, beauty and F&B, Sara most recently worked with Revolve Marketing and PR as Account Executive. In her new role, she will manage and develop client’s accounts as well as strengthen the agency’s network of media contacts.

“I couldn’t believe it when I landed the role,” says Sarah. “Dream clients, stunning offices and a team of such inspiring people – I am loving it!”

Keeley Duffy, Senior Account Director, House of Comms, adds “We knew as soon as we met Sarah that she would fit right into our growing team. The fourth quarter of the year has started off with record wins and as a business our focus is always to ensure we consistently deliver and delight our clients and we believe that Sarah has got exactly what it takes to do this.”

Friday welcomes new Editor

GN Media’s flagship weekly, Friday magazine has appointed Natalie Long to the role of Editor. Previously the Editor of tabloid!, Natalie has 10 years of experience in celebrity news, fashion, food, travel, arts and culture. In her new role, she will be overseeing the magazine’s content for print and digital platforms.

“As we celebrate 20 years of Friday magazine in 2017, we are thrilled that Natalie will be leading the team during such an exciting time for the brand,” says Katie Heskett, Publisher, Gulf News Magazines. “After having incredible success with tabloid!, Natalie’s talent and experience in delivering great content across all audience platforms is one that we look forward to bringing to the UAE’s most widely-read magazine.”

Natalie Long, Editor, Friday magazine adds, “I’m excited to join Friday magazine at this important moment in its history. I’m passionate about lifestyle content, and in ten years at tabloid!, I’ve learned that there is a wealth of wonderful stories to be explored right here in the UAE. I can’t wait to start working with the incredible team and bring even more engaging lifestyle content to readers, in the magazine and across digital platforms.”

New Account Manager joins Q Communications

Q Communications has appointed Danielle O’Neill to the role of Account Manager. With eight years of experience in PR, events and lifestyle management, Danielle most recently worked with Sept PR as Account Manager across accounts such as Hyatt Hotels Corporation and Whissle. In her new role, she will be working across F&B, hospitality and lifestyle accounts for the agency.

Q Communications has a faultless reputation with innovative campaigns and tangible results,” says Danielle. “I’m very much looking forward to being a part of such an inspiring team and supporting the growth of the agency.”