Katch International makes new hire

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Dubai-based integrated communications agency, Katch International has appointed Sean Hahessy to the role of Creative Copywriting Specialist. With a degree in English History from University of Limerick and five years of writing and editing experience, Sean has worked with Skydive Dubai as Content Writer and Editor, and most recently with Sahara Real Estate as Learning and Development Manager. In his new role, he will be responsible for writing, editing and curating content across multiple channels for Katch’s portfolio of clients.
“I am delighted to be moving back into a more focused writing and creative role with an expanding team who are just as excited to tackle new challenges and evolve,” says Sean. “There’s a great energy here at Katch and it’s definitely going to be an interesting role dealing with varied clients across sectors.”

OSN wins Media and Marketing Company of the year

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MENA-based entertainment network, OSN has been named Media and Marketing Company of the Year at the Gulf Business Awards 2017. The awards aim to celebrate companies and business leaders across nine industries including tourism, media and marketing and recognised OSN for its leadership position in the entertainment industry across the region.

“It is a privilege to be honoured with this remarkable distinction from industry leaders as the Media and Marketing Company of the year,” says Martin Stewart, CEO, OSN. “This is a true testament to the passion and dedication of the OSN team to delivering premium content in MENA and in leveraging the power of digital technology to engage with our customers.”

TMN launches legal initiative for small businesses

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The Media Network has partnered with Al Tamimi & Company to launch ‘TMN Legal Initiative’ for small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) within the UAE’s media industry. The programme aims to provide a platform for the smaller agencies to consult media-specialised lawyers at a fraction of the regular cost. With the retainer-fee split between four agencies, the initiative will offer each agency a one-on-one consultation as well as a contract drafted by Al Tamimi & Company that all four companies can use as their template. The first phase of the programme focuses on client services agreements, with more such sub-programmes to be rolled out in the future.

“At The Media Network we have always believed in supporting and encouraging small and upcoming media agencies to find their ground and prosper within the community,” says Michelle Kuehn, Co-Founder and Managing Partner, The Media Network. “We’re thrilled to be working with the renowned Al Tamimi & Company to launch a much-needed legal initiative for SMEs that may not always have the budget for an all-round legal framework.”

“We’re so excited to partner with The Media Network for the TMN legal initiative,” adds Fiona Robertson. “I look forward to helping the smaller agencies grow with our services.”

Motivate Publishing appoints new Publishing Director

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Motivate Publishing has appointed Carlos Pedroza Luna to the role of Publishing Director of its luxury media division starting September 2017. With 18 years of experience in consumer magazines, custom publishing and sales strategies, Carlos previously worked in Mexico as Publishing Director at Editorial Televista in partnership with media company, Hearst, where he worked across several titles including, Esquire, Harper’s Bazaar and Men’s Health. He most recently worked with Groupo Tourbillon also as Publishing Director in Mexico, where he oversaw the development of Tiempo de Relojes and Gentleman magazines. In his new role, he will oversee the development of Motivate’s luxury brands including Emirates Woman, Emirates Man and Jumeirah Magazine as well as new projects to be launched within the sector.

“I’m thrilled with this great opportunity to be part of the Motivate’s team managing its luxury portfolio,” says Carlos. “Being part of Emirates Woman, Emirates Man and Jumeirah Magazine, some of the most recognised titles in the region, it’s an honour. I strongly believe that I will work with a very experienced and professional team and together we will develop new ideas and possibilities to enrich Motivate’s portfolio.”

Lovin Saudi launches in the Middle East

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New media advertising company, Augustus has launched Lovin Saudi as a part of its expansion plan in the region. Following the launch of its Dubai operations in 2015, Lovin Saudi will operate with local partners and contributors based out of Saudi Arabia with support and back office functions being completed from the group’s regional headquarters in Dubai. The launch will also cover news and lifestyle in Dammam, Khobar, Riyadh and Jeddah as the main cities with content published in English, and officially open its first Saudi-Arabian based office early 2018.

“By understanding and keeping abreast of the ever-changing media landscape, Augustus has cemented Lovin Dubai’s place within the UAE market in what is a short space of time,” says Richard Fitzgerald, Managing Director, Augustus. ”This was done by focusing on quality online and social content. With the launch of Lovin Saudi, the brand will look to do the same in Saudi Arabia, shaking things up and further driving a digital approach within the region.”

The MediaVantage makes new appointment

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The MediaVantage has appointed Abhilasha Khanna to the role of Digital Solutions Director. With over ten years of experience in digital sales, Abhilasha previously worked with Clique Media as Agency Business Manager and most recently with Arabian Business and ITP Live, part of ITP Media Group as Senior Sales Manager. Abhilasha will be responsible for multiple international brands and will oversee the digital sales activities for The MediaVantage as well as work towards reaching new heights in digital capabilities and expertise.

“With the continued rapid growth in digital, I am ecstatic about spearheading and working alongside a team of ambitious, energetic and talented individuals as well as being a part of the most preferred partner in the Middle East for media representation,” says Abhilasha.

New Deputy Editor at Design Middle East

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Design Middle East, part of BNC Publishing has appointed Roma Arora to the role of Deputy Editor. Roma most recently worked as Associate Editor for Clean Middle East, a publication by Media Fusion Group and will now take on her new role at Design Middle East, where she will be responsible for the planning and creation of editorial content for the magazine’s print issue and website as well as its social media platforms.

“Design Middle East is a fabulous product and I feel proud to be a part of it,” says Roma. “I firmly believe that effort is important but knowing where to make an effort makes all the difference – which is why we are so busy putting all the efforts in the right direction.”

WhatsOn.ae takes on new Online Reporter

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WhatsOn.ae, part of Motivate Publishing has appointed Alice Holtham to the role of Online Reporter. A graduate of London College of Fashion with a degree in Fashion Journalism, Alice most recently worked with 4-Front Facilities Management, where she worked on PR and across F&B brands such as The Scene, Jekyll & Hyde and Mr. Miyagi. In her new role, she will join the What’s On Dubai team and be responsible for reporting on an array of Dubai news for WhatsOn.ae as well as be a key point of contact going forward for restaurant and nightlife happenings across the city. She will also work alongside the WhatsOn.ae Features Editor, Deputy Editor and Head of Editorial Content to curate weekly features as well as contribute to the creation of new content on the site.

“I’m so pleased to be joining the What’s On digital team at such an exciting time for the site,” says Alice. “It’s a fantastic team and I’m really looking forward to delivering cutting-edge content and reporting on the ever-evolving Dubai landscape.”