The AFO Group, following a rebrand from Markettiers4DC after investment from Waterland Private Equity, has announced its official entry into the US market. The company, already generating $3 million annually in the US, has established its first North American office in New York City. This strategic move paves the way for a series of planned acquisitions across multiple states.Leading the US charge is Melissa Cruz, (pictured), who joins AFO from Cision. As the newly appointed Client Director, Cruz brings a wealth of experience in media relations strategy, having managed media tours for renowned clients like Ketchum, Ogilvy, and Merck. Her expertise spans diverse sectors, including entertainment, non-profit, pharmaceuticals, and lifestyle. Previously, Cruz honed her skills in event production and post-production, working with industry giants like HBO and Jim Henson Productions.AFO Group CEO Howard Kosky explains the US expansion as a client-driven initiative fueled by Waterland's investment. "We can service a significant portion of our US workload from the UK," says Kosky, highlighting AFO's content production arm, Sassy Create, which frequently collaborates with West Coast film distributors and clients like LinkedIn in San Francisco. "However," Kosky continues, "establishing a US presence is crucial for planned acquisitions on the West Coast and in Austin. We have a long-term vision, and growth won't solely depend on acquisitions. We prioritize finding the right people and cultural fit. While speed is important, we'll only pursue deals that align strategically."The AFO Group, with over 250 employees, boasts a diverse portfolio of agencies beyond broadcast PR specialist Markettiers. This includes international market research consultancy Censuswide, content production agency Through The I, media organization Radio News Hub, podcast consultancy 4DC, data and insights specialist Opinion Matters, and marketing strategist Hollr.

The Public Relations and Communications Association Middle East & North Africa (PRCA MENA) has restructured its MENA Regional Board, a pivotal move aimed at fortifying strategic direction and industry representation in the MENA region.The MENA Regional Board serves as the guiding force behind PRCA MENA's initiatives, ensuring alignment with industry standards and fostering excellence in the field of public relations and communications. The restructured board brings together a diverse ensemble of esteemed industry leaders, poised to infuse their collective expertise and insights to propel the organisation to new heights. "We are delighted to unveil the restructuring of our MENA Regional Board, signifying our commitment to championing excellence and innovation in the public relations and communications landscape across the MENA region. The wealth of knowledge and experience brought forth by our board members will be instrumental in shaping the future trajectory of our organisation and advancing the profession as a whole,?Ç¥ remarked James Hewes, CEO of PRCA.The newly appointed members of the PRCA MENA Regional Board are:  Ahmad Itani, Founder & CEO, Cicero & Bernay Communication Consultancy. Chairman, PRCA MENA  Alexandre Beaulieu, Founder & CEO, TBWA DJAZ  Claire Micheletti, Founder & Joint Managing Director, Cosmopole Consultancy  Howard Kosky, CEO & Founder, Markettiers4DC  Ibrahim Al Mutawa, Co-founder and Managing Partner, Jummar PR  Imad Lahad, Managing Director, APCO Worldwide Dubai  John Rynehart, Managing Director, Seven Media  Joseph Nalloor, Discipline Lead - School of Communication, Murdoch University Dubai  Kamal Taibi, Founder & CEO, Strat?½usGroup  Khaled Alshehhi, Executive Director Marketing and Communications at UAE Government Media Office  Laureline Schwarz, Head of Global Corporate Communication, PR, Public Relations at Al-Futtaim Automotive  Louay Al Samarrai ?Çô Joint Managing Director, Co-Founder, Active (Digital. Marketing. Communications)  Natalie Amos, Managing Director - Lifestyle MENA at Four Agency  Natasha Hatherall-Shawe, Founder and CEO, TishTash Communications  Nick Sandham, Vice President, Corporate Communications, Alshaya Group  Petra B Spanko, Regional Director, Katch International  Samantha Bartel, CEO & Managing Partner, Instinctif Partners MENAThese professionals bring a rich tapestry of experiences and expertise to their roles, representing a diverse array of sectors and perspectives within the communications industry.