Tracy Ong has been appointed Head of Media Relations, Asia Pacific at Shell, marking the latest step in a communications career spanning journalism and corporate affairs across the energy, aviation and infrastructure sectors.Ong joined Shell in 2021 as Australia Media Relations Lead and has since played a key role in managing media engagement and corporate communications for the energy major in Australia. In her new regional role, she will oversee media relations across Asia Pacific, supporting Shell's communications strategy across one of its most significant growth markets. Before joining Shell, Ong held in-house communications roles across multiple industries, bringing extensive experience in media strategy, stakeholder engagement and reputation management. She began her career in journalism before transitioning into corporate communications, a path increasingly common among senior communications leaders navigating complex and highly regulated industries.Her appointment comes as Shell continues to strengthen its Asia Pacific operations across businesses including liquefied natural gas (LNG), lubricants, mobility, chemicals and low-carbon energy solutions. The company has also announced plans to relocate its Singapore headquarters to Asia Square Tower 1 in 2027 as part of its long-term regional growth strategy. Asia Pacific remains strategically important for Shell, which operates across key markets including Australia, Singapore, China, India, Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines. The region has also become increasingly significant for the company's media and stakeholder engagement efforts as energy transition policies, sustainability initiatives and investments in lower-carbon businesses continue to evolve. Shell's media relations function supports communications across its integrated energy portfolio, including corporate announcements, business developments and stakeholder engagement activities throughout the region.

Shell has named Serene Loo as Head of Strategic Communications for the Asia Pacific region, based in Singapore. In this pivotal role, Loo will lead Shell's media relations, business communications, and crisis management efforts across the region, further solidifying the company's presence and influence in the energy sector.Serene Loo brings a wealth of experience to her new role, having first joined Shell in 2010 as the Head of Asia Pacific Media Relations. During her tenure, she has played a critical role in shaping Shell's communications strategy, ensuring effective engagement with key stakeholders and the media. Her leadership has been instrumental in managing high-profile communications challenges and enhancing the company's reputation.Before her tenure at Shell, Loo had a distinguished career as a journalist and TV news presenter. She worked with several major news networks, where she honed her skills in storytelling, media relations, and public communications. In her new capacity, Loo will focus on strengthening Shell's strategic communications framework in the Asia Pacific, addressing the dynamic and evolving energy landscape. Her role will encompass overseeing the communications strategy for Shell?ÇÖs various business segments, including upstream, downstream, and integrated gas operations. Additionally, she will be responsible for crisis communications, ensuring that Shell maintains its resilience and responsiveness in the face of industry challenges and market fluctuations.Shell's decision to appoint Serene Loo comes at a time when the company is navigating a complex global energy transition. With increasing emphasis on sustainability and renewable energy, effective communication strategies are crucial for maintaining stakeholder trust and driving business success. Loo's extensive experience and proven track record make her an ideal choice to lead these efforts in one of the most dynamic regions for the energy industry.Serene Loo holds a degree in Mass Communications and has been recognized for her contributions to the field of corporate communications. Her strategic insights and leadership are expected to drive Shell?ÇÖs communications strategy forward, reinforcing the company?ÇÖs commitment to innovation and sustainability in the Asia Pacific region.

Havas agencies, including Havas London, Lemz, New York, and Immerse, have lost their B Corporation certifications following an investigation by B Lab. This decision comes after Havas Media signed a contract with Shell, raising concerns about the company's alignment with B Corp values of transparency and sustainability.A B Corporation (or B Corp) is a certification awarded to companies that meet high standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. The certification is administered by the nonprofit B Lab, which assesses companies based on their impact on various stakeholders, including workers, customers, community, and the environment. B Corps aim to use business as a force for good, balancing profit and purpose.The B Lab, which oversees B Corp certifications, acted upon complaints highlighting the environmental impact of Havas Media's association with Shell. Clean Creatives, an activist group, led the criticism, urging agencies to avoid partnerships with fossil fuel companies?.The removal of B Corp status reflects growing pressure on agencies to uphold ethical standards, particularly concerning climate change. Activists argue that working with fossil fuel companies contradicts B Corp principles. This incident underscores the broader movement demanding greater accountability within the advertising industry?.

Public relations firm Edelman has extended its contract with Shell to provide communication services, according to media reports. This decision comes after a period of public scrutiny regarding Edelman's work with fossil fuel companies.The account is reportedly worth millions, making it one of Edelman's most lucrative clients.This decision extends a relationship that has lasted over a decade. Consequently, Edelman remains a target for environmental groups urging the PR industry to cut ties with fossil fuel companies.Clean Creatives, an industry advocacy group, has been at the forefront of this push. Their efforts include public campaigns, such as posters displayed during Climate Week 2022, urging agencies to drop clients like Shell.