Hanover Communications has appointed Samantha Gregson Donnelly as Managing Director for the Middle East, marking a key leadership transition as the strategic communications consultancy continues to expand its presence across the region.Donnelly steps into the role after more than six years with Hanover, where she most recently led the firm’s Corporate Practice in the Middle East. A graduate of the University of Cambridge, she brings nearly two decades of experience spanning media and strategic communications, advising CEOs and senior executives across the Gulf on corporate reputation, crisis management, communications strategy and executive positioning.Before joining Hanover, Donnelly spent eight years at Sky News in London, serving as a television producer and later as chief planning producer for the broadcaster’s World News programme. During her tenure, she worked on major international news stories and high-profile interviews with political and business leaders from around the world.She succeeds Jonty Summers as part of a planned leadership transition and will oversee Hanover’s next phase of growth across the UAE, Saudi Arabia and the broader Middle East region.Charles Lewington, Interim Managing Partner at Hanover Communications, said Donnelly had been instrumental in the development of the firm’s Middle East business.“Samantha has played a central role in the growth and success of Hanover Middle East over the past six years and is exceptionally well placed to lead the business into its next phase,” Lewington said. “She brings strong client relationships, strategic counsel experience and deep regional understanding, alongside a clear commitment to our clients, people and long-term growth across the Middle East.”Donnelly described the appointment as an opportunity to build on the firm’s strong regional foundations.“It is a privilege to take on the role of Managing Director for Hanover Middle East at an important moment for both the business and the wider region,” she said. “Over the past six years, we have built a strong team and trusted client relationships across the UAE and Saudi Arabia, advising organisations on some of the region’s most high-profile and complex communications challenges.”She also acknowledged the contribution of her predecessor, adding that she looked forward to continuing the momentum established under Summers’ leadership.