FTI Consulting, Inc. has announced the appointment of Usman Javed as a Senior Director - Strategic Communications. In his role at FTI Consulting, Javed will support the growth of the firm?ÇÖs capabilities in the Middle East, providing strategic and policy advisory services, with a particular emphasis on the financial services and energy sectors.Javed, who is based in Riyadh, brings a decade of experience as a British diplomat and economist to FTI Consulting. He has established strong relationships with key institutions and influential entities within the Kingdom. Javed previously served as First Secretary and Head of Economic Diplomacy at the British Embassy in Riyadh, where he led policy, trade and investment initiatives between the UK and Saudi Arabia. Whilst at the British Embassy, he also spearheaded the UK?ÇÖs support of Saudi Arabia?ÇÖs Vision 2030 agenda to deliver economic diversification, launching various initiatives across priority sectors including clean energy, financial services, technology and critical minerals.  ?Ç£Usman?ÇÖs appointment is one of several recent investments that demonstrate FTI Consulting?ÇÖs commitment to its business in the Kingdom,?Ç¥ said Oliver Williams, Head of FTI Consulting?ÇÖs Strategic Communications segment in the Middle East.?Ç£As Vision 2030 enters its next phase, we?ÇÖre committed to enhancing our presence here to help our clients implement its delivery. Usman brings a deep understanding of that agenda, as well as extensive relationships across government and industry. He is a key hire for us and we are delighted to welcome him to the firm.?Ç¥The appointment of Javed underscores FTI Consulting?ÇÖs continued commitment to strengthen its presence across the Gulf Cooperation Council, following the launch of its operations in Riyadh in 2022. The firm?ÇÖs Middle East team supports clients in addressing an array of business-critical issues that contribute to the development of the region?ÇÖs capital markets and business landscape. FTI Consulting has advised on several landmark IPOs, including Modern Mills?ÇÖ record-breaking listing on the main market of the Saudi exchange.Commenting on his appointment, Javed said: ?Ç£I am delighted to join FTI Consulting at a pivotal moment as it expands its presence in Saudi Arabia ?Çô undoubtedly one of the most transformative markets in the world. With the firm?ÇÖs global platform, the opportunity to partner across different business segments, and its clear commitment to investing in the Kingdom, we are uniquely positioned to support our clients through the exciting developments under Vision 2030.?Ç¥

Fast-growing global advisory DGA Group, rebranded from Dentons Global Advisory last month, has expanded the roles of four of its senior leaders across Europe.Gr??goire Poisson, Brussels lead and former CEO of Interel at the time of its acquisition by the newly-formed DGA in 2021, has been named global head of public affairs. Poisson, who advises clients in the energy, mobility, and sustainability sectors, will work with public affairs colleagues across markets in his new role. His focus will include service delivery, business development, and strengthening relationships between the EU and US public affairs teams, along with expanding the firm?ÇÖs network of affiliates.Partner Katherine Morgan, who joined Interel in 2014 as deputy managing partner, has been appointed Europe head of public affairs. Her new brief includes growing, developing, and aligning the public affairs practice across the region.Additionally, partner James Melville-Ross, who joined DGA from FTI Consulting in 2021, has been named Europe head of complex communications advisory. He will oversee the regional management of the practice specializing in high-stakes communications issues, including crisis management and corporate reputation. Morgan and Melville-Ross will join DGA Group?ÇÖs executive committee, where Poisson is already a member.Lastly, partner Kieran O?ÇÖKeeffe, another longtime leader at Interel, has been appointed co-head of DGA?ÇÖs Brussels office. He will work alongside Poisson to oversee all operations within the multidisciplinary team.

Racepoint Global has appointed Amy Palladino as Executive Vice President of Strategic Services, in a move to strengthen its employee communications and change management capabilities. Palladino will spearhead the growth of RPG Prism, the company's newly expanded practice dedicated to these critical areas.A seasoned communications professional with a proven track record, Palladino brings a wealth of experience to Racepoint Global. Throughout her career, she has held senior positions at leading organisations like Ketchum and Heineken, where she honed her expertise in executive communication, change management, and internal communications. Most recently, Palladino served as a Vice President at Gartner, and also boasts experience running her own change management consultancy and leading people & change initiatives at FTI Consulting."The modern workplace presents a multitude of challenges for businesses," says Bob Osmond, President of Racepoint Global. "From navigating the complexities of hybrid work to harnessing the power of AI and fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce, leaders need effective communication strategies to drive engagement and innovation.""Amy Palladino is a recognized leader in the communications industry," Osmond continues. "Her extensive experience partnering with renowned brands to guide them through major transformations makes her an invaluable asset to Racepoint Global. We are confident that under her leadership, RPG Prism will empower our clients to create a more informed, inspired, and collaborative workforce."Palladino's appointment underscores Racepoint Global's commitment to providing clients with the tools and expertise needed to thrive in today's dynamic business environment.