COPIA launches first global office

Dubai-based communication and lifestyle agency, COPIA Group has launched its first office in Canada as a part of its global expansion plan. The new office is based in Toronto and will focus on crafting creative content and experiences, whilst granting accessibility across Canada. The new launch will also see the appointment of Sherry Boisvert to the role of Managing Partner bringing with her over 20 years of PR and corporate communications experience. Sherry previously worked in Canada with Citizen Relations and most recently with NARRATIVE PR, holding the role of Vice President at both agencies. In her new role, she will work closely with COPIA’s Dubai partners, Rania El Sadek and Katherine Raso to oversee all the agency’s operations and expand its presence across Canada.

“COPIA’s position has always been one of ‘local presence, global network’ and we felt the time was right to strengthen that even further with an office in Toronto,” says Rania El Sadek, Founder, COPIA Group. “It’s a vibrant city in the heart of Canada and with our expertise and connections on an international level, it made sense for us to make the move and expand to a second home.”

The National appoints new Senior Business Correspondent

Abu Dhabi-based newspaper, The National has appointed Sarah Townsend to the role of Senior Business Correspondent. Sarah most recently worked at Arabian Business, part of ITP Media Group and previously worked in the UK on a number of business publications including, Property Week, Third Sector, Financial Times and The Daily Telegraph. In her new role, she will join the business desk and focus on topics related to the aviation, law and real estate industries as well as assist the team with other projects when required.

“I am really excited to join The National’s business desk at a time when the newspaper has recently relaunched and is expanding with new journalists and more global coverage,” says Sarah. “I look forward to developing in the new role.”

New International Sales Director at The MediaVantage

The MediaVantage has appointed Dan Qayyum to the role of International Sales Director. With over 16 years of sales experience, Dan previously worked in the UK with Phones4U as Store Manager before moving to the UAE where he most recently worked with BSA Consultants as Senior Manager Sales Operations. In his new role, he will be responsible for hiring and training the sales staff while managing sales operations as well as securing new business and media acquisitions. He will also focus on reaching new heights in the company’s international media capabilities and expertise.

“I’m pleased to have made this move at a time when the industry is evolving faster than ever,” says Dan. “The MediaVantage has an outstanding reputation within the media industry for expert delivery and my experience with international media enables me to accelerate the company’s growth and help place ourselves at the top of the media representation industry in the region.”

Solutions Leisure welcomes Lucy Perrott

Solutions Leisure has appointed Lucy Perrott to the role of Group PR and Communication Manager. Lucy previously worked with COPIA as Communications Manager, where she managed campaigns such as CATCH Dubai, Sass Café and Blue Marlin Ibiza Dubai. She most recently worked with Seven Media as PR Director and handled a number of clients including Jumeirah Restaurant Group, Nando’s KSA and INGLOT. In her new role, she will drive campaigns using creative tactics and forward-thinking strategies, while leading her team and educating them on communication and PR content.

“I aspire to see the world through my work, providing game-changing approaches across public relations, digital platforms and communication in a fierce, dynamic and fast-paced industry,” says Lucy. “As one of the most well-respected, fast-growing groups in the Middle East, I look forward to making an impact in a company I can grow with.”

LIGHTBLUE* appoints new Partner

Dubai-based experiential agency, LIGHTBLUE* has promoted Craig Borthwick to the role of Partner. Craig joined LIGHTBLUE* in 2012 as Account Director and most recently held the role of Client Services Director, where he worked with brands such as Adidas, Heineken and Mercedes. In his new role, he will commit to offering brands an integrated approach with experiential marketing and help expand and build relationships with global brands.

“I will focus on solidifying LIGHTBLUE*’s position as a true MENA agency and fortify our relationship with global enterprises that wish to widen their reach across the region, while increasing our own offering with a regional focus,” says Craig.