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Mae Cabigas joins Read magazine

Mae Cabigas has been promoted to Editor of Read magazine. Prior to joining the publication, Mae was Coordinating Officer for Continental Multimedia (CMM), in charge of distributing material coming in from PRs to all sections of the magazine, as well as overseeing the distribution of complimentary copies received by agencies. In her new role as Editor, Mae will handle all editorial content for the weekly publication, brainstorming original ideas for each issue.

“This is a really great opportunity for me,” says Mae. “I have worked as the Coordinating Officer for the same publishing house, and did not expect to be given the chance to enhance my skills and move up. I am thankful foremost to my Editor-in-Chief Danielle Hosri, and of course to my colleagues for showing a great deal of support.”

Saif Haddad to leave UMEN magazine

Saif Haddad is stepping down as Editor of UMEN magazine. Having been with Amman-based magazine since 2009, Saif has overseen all editorial content for the publication and managed a team of 10 contributors, editors and designers, as well as helping to create and approve the promotional campaigns for UMEN magazine’s clients, including photo shoots, special production ads and paid promotional content. He moves on to a new and more international chapter in his career, and will remain based in Amman, Jordan.

UMEN was and always will be my second home,” says Saif. “The wonderful team and management have made my experience an unforgettable one and I wish them an even greater success. They will be truly missed.”

DPQ welcomes new Communications Director

Andrew Chupeau has joined DPQ Communications as Communications Director. Andrew brings both in-house and agency side corporate communications experience, having worked across various industry sectors including Abu Dhabi Airports Company, Novartis, Ernst & Young and Singapore Tourism Board. As Communications Director, Andrew will be responsible for the overall strategic direction of DPQ’s clients, as well as the business development of new corporate communications business.

“DPQ Communications is in an exciting growth period,” says Andrew. “So, coming on board at this time to help contribute further and play a part in directing the agency’s new stage of development is a challenge I am looking forward to.”

Koji Watanabe joins newly launched Dentsu MEA

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.”

Avantgarde Dubai appoints new Managing Director

Avantgarde, the international communications agency, has appointed Elena Maralskaya as the new Managing Director of its Dubai-based branch. Elena joins the team with over 25 years of business experience in the Middle East as well as Eastern and Central Europe, bringing to her new position a successful background in brand marketing and automotive industries.

“Avantgarde is a forward-thinking agency with a strong focus on experiential marketing,” says Elena. “I am honoured that I have been chosen to lead its experienced and knowledgeable team in Dubai. I am confident that Avantgarde can continue to grow its client base and provide outstanding services to new and existing clients in the Middle East.”

Markus Pflitsch, Avantgarde board member, responsible for the agency’s Middle East operations adds, “Elena is a highly experienced marketing and communications specialist. Her knowledge of the Middle Eastern market and her large network of business contacts will be a great asset to Avantgarde Dubai, enabling her to drive our business forward, both in the UAE and the wider Middle East region.”

Ibrahim Ahmed joins Edelman

Ibrahim Ahmed has joined Edelman UAE’s technology division as Account Manager. Having lived and worked in the UAE for five years, Ibrahim brings to his new role a solid understanding of the technology landscape in the region as he joins the Edelman team from DABO & CO, where he worked across a variety of B2B and B2C technology brands.

“I am thrilled to be joining the technology division at Edelman,” says Ibrahim. “My experience in PR so far includes working on tech brands such as Canon, Nokia and Linksys. Having previously worked on other sectors such as interiors, e-commerce, oil & gas and education, I am excited to see what my future holds at Edelman.”

Laura-Jane Cooper promoted at ITP

Laura-Jane Cooper has been promoted to Senior Sales Manager at Grazia Middle East. Formerly Sales Manager for the lifestyle publication, Laura-Jane has been with ITP Publishing since 2012, selling advertising, sponsorship, creative solutions, photo shoots and tailored bespoke packages for the fashion and beauty industry across the Grazia portfolio. In her new role, Laura-Jane will report to the Advertising Director and will continue to be responsible for managing an extensive client base, delivering top line revenue growth for Grazia Middle East.

Naomi Chadderton joins Ahlan!

Naomi Chadderton has joined Ahlan! as Acting Fashion and Beauty Editor. Prior to joining the team at ITP Publishing, Naomi was most recently Account Executive for M+M Management in London, and has extensive experience in the region, having also worked as Editor for The Dubai Mall Magazine, Fashion Editor for Concierge magazine and Junior Fashion & Beauty Editor at Grazia Middle East. Naomi will now be looking after all fashion and beauty content for the weekly lifestyle publication.

Cheil MENA appoints new Digital Director

Cheil MENA, part of South Korea’s largest advertising network, Cheil Worldwide, has appointed Anis Zantout as its new Regional Digital Director. Anis brings with him a wealth of experience, having previously held multi-faceted roles across the MENA region, which includes the positions of Digital Media Director for Initiative and Regional Director at DigitasLBi. As part of the Cheil MENA team, Anis will manage the growing digital department and will play a pivotal role in driving new business, by developing the agency’s digital credentials to develop performance media with the rise of programmatic advertising.

“Over recent years, we have made tremendous strides in enhancing our digital capabilities,” says Keesoo Kim, CEO, Cheil MENA. “Anis’s appointment will be an integral component to ensuring the agency continues to offer full integration to our clients. He brings extensive experience from within the region and under his leadership, the digital team are truly well equipped to bring our South Korean way of working – known as Tu:hon – to life.”

Alison Towle promoted at ITP

Alison Towle has been promoted to Advertising Director of the Grazia Middle East Group. Having joined ITP Publishing in 2012 for the launch of OK! Middle East as Senior Sales Manager, Alison was most recently Group Advertising Manager for Grazia Middle East. In her new role, Alison heads up the sales team across Grazia Middle East, Grazia Qatar, Grazia Luxury, Grazia Bahrain, Grazia Style Awards and Grazia Fest.