Dentsu Aegis Network has appointed Koji Watanabe as Managing Director of newly launched advertising agency, Dentsu MEA. Reporting to Michael Nederlof, CEO of Dentsu Aegis Network MENA, Koji will take charge of account and product management for Dentsu’s clients in all 54 MEA markets and aim to employ the global network’s synergies within the region. Having been with the network for over 20 years, Koji joins Dentsu Aegis Network MENA from Japan after spending extensive time in Dentsu Alpha in Vietnam, as well as in the Phillipines. As Managing Director, Koji will look to expand and build Dentsu MEA’s client base, significantly with Japanese clients looking to expand into the Middle East and Africa, as well as with local brands in the region.
The launch of Dentsu MEA takes Dentsu Aegis Network MENA’s tally of brands up to six, along with Carat, iProspect, Isobar, Posteroscope and Vizeum.
“With the Middle East and Africa outpacing other regions of the world in terms of growth, it presents a fantastic opportunity for Dentsu to capitalise on both Japanese and international brands wanting to move into the region,” says Koji. “This, coupled with our unique business methods, will ensure that we deliver unparalleled results for our clients.”
Michael Nederlof, CEO of Dentsu Aegis Network MENA adds, “It was always earmarked to introduce Dentsu into the region and the agency’s offering to our clients as part of our suite of brands in the network. With Dubai’s geographical location, Dentsu Aegis Network MENA will offer Dentsu the opportunity to access Western and European markets alike. The appointment of Koji allows us to move forward in this delivery, as he brings an abundance of experience from within our network to add tremendous value to both new and existing clients.”