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BNC Publishing makes new promotion

Media production and digital house, BNC Publishing has promoted Crystal Chesters to the role of Group Editor for hospitality titles. Former Editor of Hotelier Middle East at ITP Media Group and most recently, Editor at BNC Publishing for Catering News Middle East, Crystal will now oversee the editorial growth and development for both hospitality publications under BNC – Catering News Middle East and Hotel News Middle East as well as digital content, events and awards.

“Having been in the region for over three years editing hotel and F&B publications, I am delighted to have the opportunity to oversee BNC Publishing’s young and fast-growing hospitality portfolio,” says Crystal. “As we move into the third year of Hotel News Middle East, I am excited to help set the agenda for the publication and build the brand’s portfolio of events, while continuing to consolidate the profile of Catering News Middle East on the region’s competitive publishing market.”

PRCA joins hands with media intelligence firm

The Middle-East edition of PRCA, PRCA MENA has collaborated media intelligence agency, LexisNexis. The12-month partnership aims to provide members of PRCA with the best practices and market insights as well as special offers on a range of media monitoring and analysis tools.

“LexisNexis is delighted to partner with PRCA MENA in the Middle East region,” says Jeremy Shayler, Business Development Director, LexisNexis Middle East. “This is an exciting new venture for both parties and demonstrates our joint commitment and support of the local Middle East market for public relations and communications professionals. Our relationship brings a fresh approach to the media monitoring and analysis space and will help drive world-class expertise and practice in the region. We look forward to sharing our global best practice and thought leadership with PRCA MENA and their PR agency and in-house communication professional members.”

The Agent launches in UAE

Talent management professional, Abdel Sahrane Benjli has launched new talent agency, The Agent. With experience in the talent and entertainment industry, Abdel previously worked with Bareface as Talent Manager where he managed upcoming talents and worked with top celebrities such as Nancy Ajram. The Agent will represent brands and professionals in the media and public speaking arenas, covering various industries including fashion, sports and corporate fields.

“We’re based in the UAE, however, we currently operate across the Middle East and have worked with powerhouses such as Emirates and Emaar and hopefully very soon we’ll have an international presence as well,” says Abdel. “The goal is to create a buzz and nothing is more enjoyable than being at the centre of it.”

Anita Buys’ blog goes live

Dubai-based media professional, Anita Buys has launched a new digital platform, HerNameIsAnita.com. With past experience as a TV and radio presenter and most recently, Brand Manager for GlamBox Middle East, Anita’s new blog will feature stories on a range of topics – from sports cars and travel to fragrances and lifestyle as well as fitness.

“I’ve always wanted to be my own boss and live the entrepreneur lifestyle,” says Anita. “To be honest, I was just waiting for the right time. Over the past 12 months, I’ve been tirelessly working on content creation, product styling, graphic design and overall branding. I’m quite happy with the final product!”

Management changes at ITP

ITP Media Group has undergone further management reshuffling, following the appointment of Ali Akawi to the role of CEO last year.

Former Deputy Managing Director, Alex Reeve takes on the role of Executive Director for Consumer titles and Martin Chambers, previously Publisher at Time Out group has now taken on the position of Publishing Director. In his new role, Martin will be responsible for operations across all consumer titles under ITP. Alia Fawad, formerly Deputy Managing Director of ITP, will now manage the launch of ITP’s social influencer agency under the new division, ITP Live.

New Editor at Hotel News Middle East

Monthly hospitality title, Hotel News Middle East, part of BNC Publishing has welcomed Patrick Ryan to the role of Editor. With over 16 years of experience in the industry, Patrick was previously Assistant News Editor at weekly newspaper, 7Days. In his new role, Patrick will oversee and contribute to content creation for the publication’s print and digital platforms as well as manage all events and awards under the Hotel News Middle East brand.

 “Having worked across business desks for over a decade, it wasn’t hard to see just how important the hotel industry is to the entire region,” says Patrick. “It’s a dynamic and thriving sector and I’m looking forward to being at the helm of what’s already a vibrant and informative title. These are exciting times for the hotel industry and it’s my goal to ensure that Hotel News Middle East not only reflects that, but is right at the heart of everything that happens in the hotel sector across the region.”

ITP Publishing Group reveals new identity

Following the launch of ITP Live in November 2016, the Dubai-based publishing house has rebranded as ITP Media Group. With its growth in print, digital and event divisions, the new title and logo aims to identify the firm as a 360° content creation agency with a multi-platform approach to its publications and events.

“With more than 85 media brands, all with print, digital, video and social platforms, publishing is only part of what we do,” says Ali Akawi, CEO, ITP Media Group. “It’s therefore essential that we reflect this in our corporate identity. Along with the continual evolution of our brands, we have also recently purchased a Data Management Platform (DMP) and launched ITP Live. Collectively, this will ensure that we are appropriately aligned with, and at the forefront of this digital era. Our new name, ITP Media Group reflects these offerings.”