OMD collaborates with business intelligence agency

OMD MENA has announced an exclusive partnership with MEA-based business intelligence and research firm, Emerging Markets Intelligence and Research (EMIR). Through the partnership, OMD, part of Omnicom Media Group, aims to offer its clients effective marketing strategies and better business results with the help of market and governmental intelligence, insights and analysis.

“Our ‘Insights.Ideas.Results’ motto has always been our guiding principle and philosophy at OMD, so naturally we strive to sharpen each of these facets with the best resources available,” says Nadim Samara, CEO, OMD UAE. “Today, we operate in a world that is rich with data and insights and it’s our role, as a strategic partner to some of the world’s biggest brands, to access this intelligence and extract its value for our clients. This allows us to collectively make even more impactful decisions going forward and, ultimately, deliver better marketing performance and business results.”

BNC Publishing launches new title

Media production and digital house, BNC Publishing has launched Design Middle East, a new title for professionals involved in the commercial interior sector. The monthly print magazine will feature insightful interviews with the industry’s leaders on the major developments within the region and include pieces on furnishings, fit-outs, lighting, architecture, ceramics and textiles.

“BNC Publishing is delighted to announce the addition of Design Middle East to our fast-growing B2B portfolio,” says Wissam Younane, CEO, BNC Publishing. “We look forward to providing the commercial interior design talents of the region with a fresh and inspiring perspective on the innovations, trends and intelligence shaping this vibrant sector.”

ewmoda website goes live

UAE-based women’s forum ExpatWoman.com has launched fashion and lifestyle website, ewmoda.com. Working closely with an editorial team, bloggers and influencers, the new website features local and international news and features as well as the latest trends from the fashion, beauty, home, lifestyle and travel industry.

ewmoda is a natural extension of the ExpatWoman brand,” says Gail Livingstone, COO, ME Digital Group. “With over 600,000 unique visitors a month and an increasingly younger and mobile demographic, we are excited to provide a new website that will become the go-to source for current happenings in the fashion and lifestyle arenas both locally and internationally.”

Several promotions at PHD

The Middle East offices of media and communications agency, PHD, part of Omnicom Media Group, has announced several internal promotions to accommodate their goals of regional expansion and new service offerings.

Hassan Shoker, previously the head of investments for PHD UAE, will now oversee all markets under PHD MENA, including Egypt, Lebanon and Saudi Arabia. Ian Dolan has been appointed as the Head of Strategy and Content and will be responsible for the network’s social media and digital solutions. Sandra Essa and Stephanie Medlege have both been promoted to the role of Associate Director – Planning. In their new role, Sandra and Stephanie will further contribute to strategic planning and execution for their client’s success.

“When I joined PHD 8 years ago, it was impossible to predict the incredible journey we were about to have together,” says Elda Choucair, CEO, PHD MENA. “Looking back, it has been a phenomenal experience of growth, not just for me personally or the agency, but also our exceptionally talented team and the brands that are like family to us. These well-deserved promotions are a sign that our collective progress is made up on individual achievements and excellence. Together, with our clients, we are dedicated to continuing this shared journey of growth for the benefit of all.”

Regional Press and PR Manager joins Benefit Cosmetics

Benefit Cosmetics has welcomed Roxane Ferrer to the role of Regional Press and Public Relations Manager. With seven years of experience in public relations, Roxane previously worked for CHANEL as Middle East PR Manager and most recently for Strategies International as PR Manager. In her new role she will be responsible for all regional press as well as PR operations for the brand across the region.

“I’m excited to be joining such a fun and unique brand,” says Roxane Ferrer. “Benefit Cosmetics is all about creativity and I am happy to join the team during such a key time for the brand.”

Louis Vuitton Middle East makes new appointment

Louis Vuitton Middle East has appointed Negar Ghodstinat to the role of Communications Director starting January 2017. With over 13 years of experience, Negar previously worked at MTV Networks International as Account Director and most recently at Motivate Publishing as Group Publisher for luxury and lifestyle working across several luxury titles including Emirates Woman and Jumeirah Magazine. In her new role she will oversee the PR, advertising, digital and corporate events division of the company.

“I’m very excited and eager to be joining the brand side after over a decade on the media front,” says Negar Ghodstinat. “Joining Louis Vuitton family is most certainly a dream come true and I feel honoured to become part of such an amazing team.”