The Middle East Public Relations Association (MEPRA) hosted its prestigious 16th annual awards, bringing together over 550 industry professionals at a glittering ceremony to celebrate the standout achievements in public relations and communications. This year’s awards featured 62 top agencies and professionals vying for titles across 53 categories, showcasing the best in creativity, strategy, and impact.With 770 entries evaluated by a distinguished panel of 130 industry veterans, the event highlighted campaigns and professionals that have redefined excellence in PR. Memac Ogilvy led the evening, securing 27 awards, followed by Gambit Communications with 22 and Weber Shandwick with 16.Key Highlights:• Chairman’s Award: Jamal Al Mawed, Founder & Managing Director of Gambit Communications.• In-House Team of the Year: Department of Culture and Tourism, Abu Dhabi.• Large Agency of the Year: Memac Ogilvy.• Medium Agency of the Year: Gambit Communications.• Small Agency of the Year: Matrix Public Relations.• Homegrown Agency of the Year: Gambit Communications (for the third time).Campaign Excellence:• Best Business-to-Business Campaign: Dubai Holding’s Gift It Forward Ramadan Campaign 2024.• Best Fashion and Technology Campaigns: TASAWAR-Taking the Runway by Snap Inc and Weber Shandwick MENAT.• Best Government Communications: Burson for I Care.• Best Crisis Communication: Matrix Public Relations.• Best Retail Campaign: Gambit Communications and City Centre Mirdif.Individual Accolades:• Best Communicator of the Year: Iman Isa, Burson.• Young Communicator of the Year: Rebecca Rego, Edelman.• Outstanding Student Campaign: Astha Kurup, Arvy Moga, and Jared Rallos from Murdoch University Dubai.Industry Insight:Kate Midttun, Chairperson of MEPRA, commended the winners, stating:"The Middle East’s PR industry continues to set global benchmarks, demonstrating resilience and creativity in navigating tighter budgets and deadlines. From embracing AI and technology to crafting compelling narratives, our trailblazers prove that innovation and adaptability remain at the heart of our success."PartnershipsWeber Shandwick collaborated as Diamond Partner for the third year, joined by Platinum Partners MSL Group Middle East, Action Global Communications, and Memac Ogilvy. Supporting partners included CARMA, Edelman, Mubadala, TECOM Group Dubai, and others.

Drishti Bhatnagar is a Senior Account Manager and Public Relations Professional, who recently moved from Madison World to Weber Shandwick. With experience across top PR agencies, Bhatnagar is adept at crafting compelling narratives and executing high-impact campaigns, making her a valuable strategist in the field. Her expertise spans media relations, brand storytelling, and client management, positioning her as a dynamic leader in the evolving world of public relations. At Weber Shandwick, Bhatnagar continues to leverage her skills to drive innovative communications for clients, building on her impactful journey at Madison World.In conversation with Adgully, Drishti Bhatnagar, Senior Account Manager, Weber Shandwick, speaks about the importance of strategic storytelling, media connections, and the power of adaptable, innovative PR approaches that resonate with today’s audiences. Bhatnagar’s seamless transition highlights her commitment to building compelling brand narratives and driving meaningful engagement in the evolving PR landscape.What motivated your decision to transition from Madison World to Weber Shandwick, and what specific goals influenced this change?My career transitions were always driven by a desire for growth and the opportunity to work and explore different client verticals. After spending several years at Madison World, where I had the privilege of working on diverse campaigns with leading brands, I felt the need to challenge myself further in a larger, more dynamic environment. Weber Shandwick’s global reputation, innovative approach to communications, and focus on purpose-driven campaigns aligned perfectly with my professional aspirations.How do you balance your diverse roles at Weber Shandwick, and what challenges do you face in juggling these responsibilities?As a PR professional at Weber, I act as an extended communication team for clients, managing client servicing and strategy development. I prioritize high-impact tasks, balance short-term needs with long-term goals, and stay ahead of the curve in the rapidly evolving digital landscape. My focus is on delivering innovative, effective communication strategies that drive results, while navigating PR’s fast-paced nature and exceeding client expectations.What does a typical day look like for you? Could you share the key activities that you prioritize in your day-to-day life?A typical day for me at Weber Shandwick is a blend of strategy, collaboration, and client engagement. I start by reviewing the day’s priorities – from client meetings to media outreach – and ensure alignment with the team. Much of my time is spent coordinating with clients and internal teams to refine strategies and troubleshoot challenges. I also prioritize staying up-to-date with industry trends, which helps in crafting proactive solutions for clients.What inspired you to pursue a career in this field, and how did you prepare for this role alongside your other professional commitments?My inspiration to pursue a career in public relations stemmed from my passion for storytelling and the impact effective communication can have on shaping brand narratives.From the start, I was drawn to the energetic, fast-paced nature of the industry and its potential to influence public perception. To prepare for this role, I balanced my academic studies with internships and hands-on experiences, which helped me build a solid foundation in PR. As I progressed in my career, I consistently sought opportunities for professional development, such as workshops and certifications, to stay current with industry trends while managing other professional commitments.Did you have any mentors or icons who guided you in your career, and how did they influence your professional journey?Yes, I’ve been blessed to have great bosses in the start of my career who became my mentors and my close friends. They helped me to refine my PR skills and instilled the importance of resilience and adaptability in the industry. Their insights on strategy and client management shaped my approach to problem-solving. I still sometimes call them when I am stuck somewhere and need guidance.How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance, and what practices do you use to manage stress and ensure personal well-being?I prioritize work-life balance by setting clear boundaries and managing my time effectively, ensuring space for personal pursuits like meditation, reading, and family time. Mindfulness practices and strategic breaks help me stay focused and calm, while a well-structured routine maintains productivity. By intentionally balancing professional demands with self-care, I preserve my well-being, boost resilience, and achieve a fulfilling integration of work and life.Could you share some key milestones or achievements in your career so far, and how have they shaped your professional journey?Throughout my PR career, I have delivered impactful results, notably executing a pioneering virtual roundtable at the onset of Covid and spearheading successful brand launches for leading FMCG brands. Notably, I have maintained long-standing relationships with previous clients, showcasing my commitment to enduring partnerships. By working with cross-functional teams on large-scale projects, I have honed my leadership and collaboration skills. These milestones have enhanced my expertise in PR strategy, pressure-resistant delivery, and industry adaptability, positioning me as a versatile and effective communications professional.What key learning experiences from your time at Madison World have you carried over to your current role at Weber Shandwick?At Madison World, I learned the importance of adaptability, quick decision-making, teamwork and building strong client relationships. I also gained valuable experience in integrated campaigns, which I now apply at Weber Shandwick to develop more holistic, cross-channel strategies. These experiences have helped me stay proactive in meeting diverse client needs in my current role.

Rekha Rao has announced her resignation as Managing Director of Zeno Group after four years with the company. She shared her decision on LinkedIn, writing, "It's here, this day. In nearly three decades of my work life, I never really took a break, as I moved from one job to another. So it feels weird to be doing it now, even as I realize the need to slow down, stop, take a breath, and re-energize! So here I am, bidding adieu to Zeno, as its Managing Director, after nearly 5 years of living FEARLESS and painting the world GREEN :), and a BIG thank you to this bunch of amazing colleagues who allowed me to live so."She also expressed gratitude toward her colleagues for their support during her tenure.Prior to joining Zeno, Rao served as Senior Vice President at 20:20 MSL. She has also held roles including Principal Consultant at Corporate Voice | Weber Shandwick, Senior Client Services Director at IPAN, and Head of Corporate Communications at Dr. Batra's. Additionally, she has been associated with firms like Versatile Communications, Triton Communications, and Lintas.

Albert Shu, a long-standing figure at Weber Shandwick, is stepping down from his role as President of the firm's Hong Kong and Singapore operations. His departure marks the end of a two-decade tenure with the Interpublic Group firm in Asia.Shu joined Weber Shandwick in 2004 and has been instrumental in driving the firm's growth in both Hong Kong and Singapore. He led the Hong Kong office for 16 years and was instrumental in securing numerous awards and accolades.A Weber Shandwick spokesperson praised Shu's contributions: "Albert has served over 20 years with the Weber Shandwick Asia-Pacific team. He has led his teams with dedication, strategic vision, and a commitment to excellence. We thank Albert for his contributions and wish him all the best.""Albert will work closely with the leadership teams in both Hong Kong and Singapore over the coming months to ensure a smooth transition," added the spokesperson. Shu will remain with the firm until the end of the year to ensure a smooth transition. In the interim, Robert Magyar, a senior advisor based in Beijing, will oversee the Hong Kong operations, while Carolyn Devanayagam, the regional corporate affairs head, will take charge of Singapore.Weber Shandwick's operations in both Hong Kong and Singapore are significant, with the firm being the largest international PR firm in Hong Kong. The departure of Shu, who previously worked at Deloitte and Burson, marks the end of a rare instance of a single executive overseeing both markets.(Image: webershandwick)

Weber Shandwick has recognized Jean Paoli's exceptional creative leadership by promoting him to Executive Creative Director for Europe. In this pivotal role, Paoli will oversee the creative teams across the agency's offices in Belgium, Germany, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Spain, and France.Paoli, who has served as the Creative Director of Weber Shandwick Paris for the past six years, will also play a key role in driving regional growth through multi-market pitches. His impressive track record includes working on award-winning campaigns for brands such as Iberdrola, Dacia, and Purina, earning recognition at Cannes, Eurobest, and Clio.In 2023, Weber Shandwick Paris, under Paoli's guidance, secured the prestigious third-most-awarded French agency status at The One Show Awards. The agency's standout campaigns, including "Turnstile Turbines" for Iberdrola and "The Uncover" for Frida breastfeeding, garnered top honors, including a Best of Show, Gold, and Bronze.Based in Paris, Paoli will report to Tom Beckman, Weber Shandwick's Global Head of Creative.Tom Beckman said: “The marketing industry is full of talent, but senior creatives within the earned space is a much smaller pool. Jean sits at the centre of that small pool – one of the best-earned creatives I’ve worked with. Increasing his influence will benefit the work, our clients and our colleagues.”Paoli said: “I’m incredibly excited to step into the role of executive creative director, Europe. I look forward to fostering synergies and culture to help opportunities and great ideas emerge across the region.”

Global sportswear giant adidas has appointed Sarah Skaf as PR and Newsroom Manager for the Middle East & North Africa (MENA) region.Skaf brings a wealth of experience in public relations and communications to her new role at adidas. Prior to joining the company, she served as a Communications Manager at Havas Red Middle East. Her career in PR began at Weber Shandwick.In her new position, Skaf will be responsible for leading adidas' communications efforts in the MENA region. She will oversee the brand's media relations, ensuring that adidas maintains a strong and positive reputation in the market.With her expertise in the field of communications, Skaf is well-equipped to help adidas continue its growth and success in the region.

Weber Shandwick is making significant changes to its North American leadership team. Michael Wehman, previously president of New York, has been appointed president of client experience & operations. To fill Wehman's role, Jamie Dowd will take on the position of president of New York.In his new role, Wehman will spearhead growth initiatives for Weber Shandwick's extensive client base. He will also oversee integrated media and operational functions across North America, including client operations and resource management.Dowd will now lead the firm's largest office, located in New York City, which houses approximately 500 employees. In addition to his new responsibilities, he will continue to oversee the region's healthcare clients as president of health for the Americas.Jim O'Leary, who became North America CEO in 2023, stated that these leadership changes are a result of the company's significant growth over the past year. He emphasized the importance of maintaining exceptional client service and has been restructuring North America's leadership teams to achieve this goal. “Michael and Jamie have been critical to our dramatically accelerated growth in North America. I’m excited to see both of them continue to thrive in their elevated roles,” said Jim O’Leary.

Chinese smartphone giant Oppo has selected Weber Shandwick to spearhead its international public relations strategy, marking a significant step in its global expansion. According to reports, the partnership follows a competitive review and will see Weber Shandwick handling media relations, content creation, and brand positioning for Oppo outside of China.Oppo, known for its innovative smartphone designs and cutting-edge technology, has experienced rapid growth in recent years. The company has established a strong presence in key markets such as Southeast Asia and Africa, and its global smartphone sales ranked fifth in Q2 2024.Weber Shandwick's appointment comes as Oppo seeks to further elevate its brand awareness and strengthen its market position internationally. The PR firm's global reach and expertise in technology and consumer communications will be instrumental in helping Oppo achieve its objectives.In addition to its smartphone business, Oppo has also made significant strides in other areas, including smart home devices, wearable technology, and AI-powered solutions. The company's commitment to innovation and its focus on delivering exceptional customer experiences have contributed to its success.As Oppo continues to expand its global footprint, its partnership with Weber Shandwick is expected to play a crucial role in driving its growth and solidifying its position as a leading player in the smartphone market.

ERA Communications has named Khushil Vaswani as its new Chief Operating Officer, leading the firm's market leadership teams across Southeast Asia. Vaswani will report to ERA's Managing Director, Anthony Larmon, and work closely with regional teams to enhance the firm's capacity for coordinated, multi-market solutions.With 20 years of agency experience, Vaswani joins ERA from Wachsman, where he held a director role. He previously spent 12 years at Weber Shandwick, rising to SVP of client experience, and has also worked with Jetstar.“ERA’s growth ambitions mirror my own, and I look forward to sharing my global agency experience with the team, developing capabilities and providing world-class consulting to all current and prospective ERA clients,” said Vaswani.“The opportunity in this region, for independent players like us, who truly understand and care about the markets that we operate in is immense, and it’s time to build our leadership team. Khushil’s extensive experience and proven track record in managing complex, multi-market communications programs make him an invaluable addition to our firm,”

Weber Shandwick has named Marianna Ruiz as Chief Creative Officer of Creative Growth for North America, a newly established role within the agency. Ruiz, who will begin her tenure in September, will report to Robyn Adelson, Chief Strategy Officer for North America. In her new role, Ruiz will lead creative efforts tied to new business development and foster stronger relationships with both new and existing clients, aiming to elevate the quality of work and unlock new creative opportunities.Ruiz's immediate focus will be on connecting with her team, understanding their capabilities, and helping them enhance their skills. She also plans to unify the creative department across different regions, driving revenue growth and improving the quality of work across the network.Ruiz joins Weber Shandwick from Edelman, where she served as Executive Creative Director. Her previous roles include creative leadership positions at Havas and FCB Global.In addition to Ruiz’s appointment, Weber Shandwick has promoted Jeff Immel, a 14-year veteran of the firm, to Chief Creative Officer for Chicago. Immel, who will report to Sheila Mulligan, Central Region President, previously served as Executive Creative Director. There are no plans to replace his former role. Immel has led award-winning campaigns, including the Cannes Lions Grand Prix-winning Pop-Tarts Edible Mascot campaign, and he will continue to oversee the firm’s creative work for Kellanova.Weber Shandwick is part of The Weber Shandwick Collective, which also includes several other leading firms. Last month, Gail Heimann, CEO of The Weber Shandwick Collective, announced her retirement in November, with agency president Susan Howe set to succeed her.

Shikha Arora has taken on the role of Associate Director of Corporate Communications at Eli Lilly and Company, returning to the organization after a seven-year break. She was earlier with the company for five years, from 2012 to 2017, before coming back in this new capacity. Shikha shared the update on LinkedIn. She is an experienced and dynamic communications leader with a broad background spanning over 16 years in both B2B and consumer sectors. Her career includes more than three years at Baxter International, as well as time with Shire, Weber Shandwick, and others. Notably, she has also contributed to one of India's most impactful public relations initiatives, the USAID Condom Promotion Campaign, which has received multiple international accolades.

Munavar Attari, the Managing Director of FleishmanHillard India, has stepped down after dedicating eight years to the organization. During his tenure, he was responsible for overseeing the overall P&L for India, managing clients and offices, and providing strategic counsel and guidance on client campaigns, corporate reputation, and issues/crisis management.Attari is a seasoned communications professional with over 20 years of experience in the communications and public relations industry. Over the course of his career, he has worked with prominent organizations such as Omnicom India Marketing Advisory Services, Edelman, Weber Shandwick, and Blue Star Infotech Ltd, among others.

Weber Shandwick Australia has announced four key promotions within its team, reflecting the agency's ongoing growth across its consumer, technology, corporate, and healthcare practices.Jami Gandha has been elevated to Business Director and will take on the role after her maternity leave later this year. With over a decade of experience in consumer communications, Jami has led the consumer portfolio for numerous national and global brands, particularly in FMCG, fashion, and lifestyle sectors.Matthew Plant has been promoted to Senior Project Manager. Since joining Weber Shandwick in 2021, Matthew has been instrumental in managing projects across social, digital, and traditional media within various sectors.Tesree Appanna has advanced to the position of Senior Account Manager. Tesree has a robust background in creating and implementing strategic media relations programs for enterprise technology, startups, and financial services.Nicholas (Nick) Allison has been promoted to Senior Account Executive, further strengthening the agency's capabilities.These promotions underscore Weber Shandwick Australia's commitment to fostering talent and enhancing its service offerings across diverse industry sectors.

In the wake of the Supreme Court's Dobbs decision, which revoked the constitutional right to abortion, Weber Shandwick leaders decided to take their own initiative to address the 2022 ruling. Led by the late Angela Mears, then New York’s chief creative officer, the team aimed to protect women’s digital privacy amid growing concerns for those seeking reproductive health information online.This effort culminated on June 24, the second anniversary of Dobbs, with the launch of the Vagina Privacy Network (VPN). Created in partnership with MSI Reproductive Choices and the Electronic Frontier Foundation, this online portal helps women safely search for abortion care or reproductive health information without leaving a digital trail. The VPN provides a step-by-step guide for online identity protection, including links to free, secure web browsers. This digital toolkit is especially crucial in states with abortion restrictions.Last month’s VPN rollout featured activations in three states where abortion rights are banned (Indiana, Tennessee) or severely restricted (Georgia). VPN-branded burner phones with recordings of the digital privacy toolkit were distributed at marches marking the anniversary of Roe vs. Wade being overturned, and to grassroots partners. Billboards were also erected in state capitals to ensure legislators got the message.Pam Jenkins, Weber Shandwick’s chief public health officer, emphasized that the agency will continue supporting VPN, utilizing influencers and trusted female thought leaders to raise awareness of the site.The ultimate goal remains clear: safeguarding women's digital privacy.

Tata Electronics has announced the appointment of Varghese Thomas as their new Global Head of Communications. Varghese brings with him a wealth of experience from his previous role as Chief Communications Officer (CCO) at Greaves Cotton Limited. His impressive career includes significant contributions to some of the industry's leading companies.Prior to his tenure at Greaves Cotton, Varghese spent over seven years with TVS Motor. He initially joined as the Vice President & Global Head of Communication and was later promoted to Senior Vice President & Global Head of Communication. His strategic leadership played a crucial role in enhancing TVS Motor's corporate communications and global outreach.Varghese's career also includes a significant stint at BlackBerry India, where he served as the Director of Corporate Communications for India and Greater China. His expertise in corporate communication extends further back to roles at Cisco, Intel, Genesis Burson-Marsteller, and Weber Shandwick, where he honed his skills in public relations and corporate strategy.As Tata Electronics' Global Head of Communications, Varghese Thomas is expected to leverage his extensive experience to drive the company's communication strategies, enhance stakeholder engagement, and support the organization's global growth initiatives.

Weber Shandwick has promoted Harsh Sinha to the position of Director of Media Relations. Sinha has been associated with Weber Shandwick for over 14 years, having joined the firm as a Senior Manager. He announced his promotion on LinkedIn.Prior to joining Weber Shandwick, Sinha worked as a Senior Associate in Client Servicing and Media Relations at Sampark Public Relations Pvt. Ltd. for over two years.

Weber Shandwick, a leading global communications agency, has appointed Farah Nurili Zuber as Vice President, Head of Communications for Asia-Pacific (APAC). In this newly created role, Zuber will oversee the firm's integrated communications efforts across the region, focusing on a broad range of stakeholders.Zuber brings over 14 years of experience in marketing and communications, having worked with renowned agencies such as Ogilvy Public Relations, ARC Worldwide, Edelman, SPAG FINN Partners, and Redhill. She boasts a specialization in corporate communications and reputation management within the technology, finance, and governance sectors. “Farah’s extensive regional experience in reputation management and her deep understanding of the business landscape are instrumental in driving our next growth phase. Her appointment demonstrates our commitment to delivering greater value to our employees, clients, and partners in the region. We are thrilled to have her with us,” said Tyler Kim, APAC CEO at Weber Shandwick. Farah said: “It is exciting and an honour to be part of Weber Shandwick, an agency renowned for delivering value-driven, earned-first work for decades. Additionally, the agency’s culture, which deeply embraces diversity and well-being, is truly refreshing. I strongly believe these two elements - the commitment to the work and to people - are what makes a brand successful and meaningful. I look forward to contributing to the agency’s growth moving forward.” Weber Shandwick is part of the Interpublic Group.

WE Communications (WE) has announced the appointment of Nichole Provatas as executive vice president and international head of integrated marketing. This new role expands upon her previous position as executive vice president, APAC head of integrated marketing. Prior to that, she served as the global head of digital, creative, and strategy.In her new role, Provatas will lead WE's borderless experience team (BET), a globally decentralized group that offers client counsel, creative execution, strategic insights, and data capabilities to clients worldwide.Before joining WE, Provatas was at Adobe, where she held roles as head of brand communications and advocacy, APAC, and head of social media, APAC. She also worked as an account director and senior account supervisor at Edelman in Sydney and New York, respectively.Additionally, WE Communications has appointed Brian Keenan as executive vice president and international head of insights and analytics. Keenan will be responsible for enhancing WE's insight, analytics, and strategy capabilities for clients and driving growth across key markets and sectors.Keenan previously held the role of executive vice president, APAC strategy, and head of strategy at WE. His prior experience includes serving as senior vice president of planning and head of business intelligence at Weber Shandwick Australia, as well as senior insights, strategy and creativity planner and global creative initiatives manager at Ketchum in London. According to his LinkedIn profile, Keenan began his career as a guest lecturer at New York University, where he taught global marketing, creativity, brainstorming, and emerging technologies.Both Provatas and Keenan report to Kass Sells, CEO, International, WE.Alongside these leadership changes, WE has appointed Charmaine Lin and Michelle Lim as director and associate director of sectors in Singapore, respectively. Reporting to Troy Lee, head of sectors at WE, Lin and Lim will enhance the agency’s capabilities in tourism, travel and hospitality, technology, B2B, and crisis communications.

Weber Shandwick India, today launched the “Elections Matter: India Report”. The survey led by the Corporate Advisory and Public Affairs practice, examined election sentiments around news consumption habits, trust in different information sources and voting behaviours and motivations among Gen Z (18-24 years) and Millennial (25-44) consumers in India. Key findingsMedia consumption behaviour w.r.t. current events, news & politicsGenerational differences in news consumption: Stark contrast exists in news engagement between Millennials and Gen Zs. Over 55% of Millennials followed news daily, compared to about 36% of Gen Z with males significantly more inclined to current events, news & politics. While TV is among the top 3 news sources, there was a significantly lower preference among Gen Zs (44%) compared to Millennials (60%).Reaffirmation of digital consumption surge: YouTube is the leading platform for consumption of current events, news and politics, in keeping with the digital media uptake. It was the dominant information source across all demographics, particularly driven by Delhi, while TV channels were on top in Chennai and Bangalore. It was followed closely by Instagram, TV, and WhatsApp.Most watched is necessarily not the most trusted: Google search, print media, and digital news media had a higher trust quotient compared to most social media platforms.Traditional media resonating stronger for Millennials: Print media continued to have higher acceptance among Millennials. 45% Millennials consumed print media for news and politics compared to only 31% Gen Zs. This preference pattern was evident even in the consumption pattern for television. South India especially Chennai and Bangalore had a stronger leaning to television than the rest of India. Also, 42% males favoured print versus 33% of women. Print media was also high on trust compared to most social media platforms.Concerns about misinformation: After fake news websites, social media influencers topped the list for spreading misinformation. Males in particular were especially distrustful of them.Sentiments towards elections & votingMotivated Millennials and less enthusiastic Gen Zs: Millennials were significantly motivated by elections and voting due to a strong sense of civic duty and the desire for educational reform. Chennai and Hyderabad had a higher sentiment comparatively towards elections. In contrast, Gen Z showed less enthusiasm, hinting at a potential apathy in political engagement. Priority issues for elections and new government expectations: Civic and social factors such as infrastructure development, outweighed economic concerns and party manifesto promises as primary voting motivations across gender and generational cohorts. The state of the economy and education were the most pressing issues both for the current elections and future government focus, reflecting widespread concerns about socio-economic and educational development. This shift suggested a future-oriented approach to polling, with voters seeking macro-level changes for a better future.Regional differences in voting motivations: Voters in Delhi focused on infrastructure development, while those in southern regions, such as Chennai and Bangalore, prioritized voting for candidates who promised to bring about change and impactful leadership.Gender-specific concerns towards elections: While economy, education and public safety were perceived to be among the top priorities for the recent elections, women were particularly interested in women empowerment issues, highlighting the importance of gender-specific policy agendas. Also, over 55% would like the new government to focus on economy, education and healthcare agendas.Commenting on the consumer survey findings, Rohan Kanchan, MD – Consulting and Head of Public Affairs, Weber Shandwick India, said, “This report underscores the dynamic nature of news consumption and electoral engagement in today’s digital age. Even as broader generational trends are known, nuances within the cohorts reveal a break from the pattern. For instance, the connection of Influencers in consumer motivations vis-a-vis trust in perception, might have implications in analyzing corporate reputation and development of future strategies. Our national commonalities peppered with our regional disparities, continue to provide an interesting lens to any consumer study such as Elections Matter.” The survey was conducted by YouGov among 1,000 respondents from the top 10 cities in India, including Mumbai, Delhi-NCR, Chennai, Kolkata, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, Lucknow, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad. The demographics of the survey were balanced, with a near-equal split between males (51%) and females (49%), and evenly distributed between Gen Zs and Millennials. 

Weber Shandwick's "First Edible Mascot" campaign for Pop-Tarts shatters barriers, becoming the first PR win in the Brand Experience & Activation Grand Prix at Cannes Lions 2024.This win marks a high point for PR at the prestigious festival, following Golin's "The Misheard Version" for Specsavers, which secured the PR Grand Prix and showcased PR agencies' creative leadership potential.The "Edible Mascot" campaign – a collaboration between Weber Shandwick, Kellanova, Florida Citrus Sports, Publicis, and others – was a massive success. It involved creating a giant, limbed Pop-Tart mascot for the Pop-Tart Bowl and treating players with edible versions after the game. The result? A viral sensation:Over 4 billion impressions$1 million in first-party data acquired15 times more brand mentions than all other non-sponsored bowl games combined.Industrywide TriumphWeber Shandwick's win wasn't the only PR highlight. Ogilvy also secured a Grand Prix for social & influencer with the "Michael CeraVe" campaign, demonstrating PR's growing influence in multi-platform campaigns.Additionally, PR agencies played a key role in securing Gold Lions for:Edelman's "Bar Experience" for HeinekenWeber Shandwick's "Translators" for U.S. Bank (part of IPG's Area 23 network's "In Transit" for NYC LGBT Historic Sites Project)Zeno's support for Rethink Toronto's "Heinz Ketchup Fraud" campaignThis year's Cannes Lions is a testament to the evolving role of PR agencies, showcasing their ability to drive creative, impactful brand experiences.

Aspectus Group, a global brand, marketing and communications agency, has announced its latest expansion, opening its first office in the Middle East, appointing Astrid French to lead.Located in Dubai, UAE, the move affirms the agency’s global growth plans and long-term commitment to the region, having supported clients in the market for over a decade. The UAE office will drive activity across strategic locations in the Middle East, for local firms seeking global support and global firms pursuing local impact. Aspectus will continue its focus on specialist B2B expertise in energy, marine and industrials; technology; financial and professional services; and capital markets.Astrid French, who joined Aspectus in 2021 following tenure at Weber Shandwick and Edelman, and who has since led the Energy & Industrials Practice, is expanding her role, appointed as Head of Middle East. Astrid commented: “The opportunity in this region cannot be overstated. Attractive business conditions and an appetite for innovation and investment is fueling economic growth in a way we simply aren’t seeing in other markets.“It’s particularly evident in our core sectors, with initiatives like the $500M UAE AI & emerging tech R&D programme, consistent double-digit growth in DIFC company registrations, and new CCUS and green hydrogen projects on the horizon.“This creates opportunities for both established heritage brands and vibrant emerging start-ups. But, it also significantly raises competition on the local and global stage. Storytelling always matters – but in this context, and in sectors where messaging must be handled with care, having a voice that is heard, remembered and advocated for, for the right reasons, becomes a non-negotiable.”Astrid will be responsible for overseeing the strategic direction of Aspectus’ activity in the Middle East across brand strategy, digital and media relations, as well as retaining her current lead role on a number of flagship global clients. The news follows Aspectus’ highly successful office opening in Singapore in January 2023, which has experienced impressive growth since launch.Alastair Turner, Global CEO of Aspectus Group, continued, “As an agency, we have lived by a commitment to unparalleled service for our clients; where they need us, that’s where we go. For a long time, we have supported in this region, but it has become increasingly clear the need to pivot from executional to strategic on-the-ground leadership. It will elevate our work not only in the Middle East, but across the world as we grow our network of offices that form a nexus of global support for our clients. We couldn’t have a better person representing the agency in Astrid. She is brilliant with clients from both a strategic and tactical point of view as well as being a fearless new business operator. She is endearingly geeky about our specialist sectors and passionate about people development. We are lucky to have her driving the business forward in the region.”

Weber Shandwick has announced a significant expansion of its UK creative team, including promotions for existing staff and the addition of new talent.Promotions:Klein Borrill has been promoted to the newly created role of UK Head of Design. Borrill brings extensive experience from his previous role as Head of Design at That Lot, a social creative agency that joined the Weber Shandwick Collective in 2018.Jack Duffield and Chris Marsden, who joined the agency in 2022, have been promoted to Associate Creative Directors. They recently led the creation of a successful pop-up for eBay UK.Charlie Powell has been promoted to Conceptual Creative after transitioning from the consumer team to the creative team.New Hires:Carly Illston joins Weber Shandwick as an Art Director, teaming up with Copywriter Marley Muirhead. They previously worked together at multiple agencies.Leadership:The expanded creative department now reports to UK President Amy Garrett, who emphasized the team's role in empowering clients to achieve their business goals.Recent Appointment:This news follows the recent appointment of Yan Elliott as Weber Shandwick's Chief Creative Officer in London.

McDonald's "Grimace's Birthday" campaign, created by Golin, was the star of the North American SABRE Awards, winning the top prize for Best Public Relations Campaign of 2023. This marks a historic night for Golin, becoming the first agency ever to snag three major awards: Best Agency to Work For, Large Agency of the Year, and Best in Show.The award-winning campaign addressed a significant drop in birthday celebrations at McDonald's. They brought back a beloved character, Grimace, to reignite excitement. This clever strategy resulted in a staggering 900% increase in birthday celebrations at McDonald's after five years of stagnation."This campaign was pure, fantastic consumer marketing," said Paul Holmes, head judge and founder of PRovoke Media. Awards often favor purpose-driven initiatives, but sometimes, great PR boils down to a creative idea that captures consumer imagination and fosters meaningful engagement."And the results in this case were nothing short of phenomenal," he concluded."Grimace's Birthday" triumphed over other impressive campaigns to win the coveted Platinum SABRE. These finalists included:  Dove's "Black Hair is Professional" with Ogilvy  SAG-AFTRA's "2023 Negotiations and Strike Campaign" with SAG-AFTRA  DHL Supply Chain's "Step Up for Safety" with Fahlgren Mortine  Aura Freedom's "For Her" Campaign with Veritas Communications and Forsman & Bodenfors"These finalists represent the incredible range of PR work seen this year," said Holmes. "From social justice efforts by Dove to navigating the Hollywood strike for SAG-AFTRA, to internal communications for DHL, any of these campaigns could have rightfully won the top prize."Ogilvy walked away as the biggest award winner, taking home eight trophies. MSL and Weber Shandwick followed with five awards each, while BCW snagged four. Finn Partners, Golin, and M Booth rounded out the top with three awards apiece.

Weber Shandwick UK has named Yan Elliott as its new chief creative officer, a newly-created role. Elliott has been serving as the agency's interim creative lead since September.Prior to joining Weber Shandwick, Elliott held creative leadership positions at several prominent London advertising agencies, including Mother, Lucky Generals, The And Partnership, and most recently as executive creative director at AMVBBDO. During his career, he has developed award-winning creative campaigns for clients such as Dr Pepper, Orange, Sky, and RNIB.In his new role, Elliott will be responsible for leading Weber Shandwick's creative department and overseeing the strategy and execution of creative campaigns for the agency's clients. Some of his recent work for Weber Shandwick includes a collaboration between Budweiser and artist Sir Peter Blake, resulting in the launch of a limited-edition pop art can featured in an interactive exhibition in London, housed in the "world's first fridge frame" to keep it cool.Based in London, Elliott will oversee a team of creatives across Weber Shandwick's UK offices in London, Manchester, and Scotland. He will report to UK president Amy Garrett, who expressed her enthusiasm about the new hire. "We are thrilled to have Yan as part of our team," said Garrett. "His wealth of experience and innovative approach to creativity, which lies at the heart of our business, will elevate our brand and drive forward our strategic vision for our clients and colleagues." Elliott shared his excitement about the new opportunity, stating, "Weber Shandwick is an agency boasting a diverse range of talent, capabilities and expertise. It's a new world for me, and I have been blown away by the talented people and the smart way they go about their work. I am excited about collaborating with our talented teams to unleash the business's full potential. It's impactful creativity that can take our clients to new heights."

Weber Shandwick has announced key leadership changes to strengthen its crisis, issues, and risk management offerings across the Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) region.As part of this, Barnaby Fry (pictured) has joined as Head of Crisis and Issues, EMEA. Fry brings over 20 years of experience in crisis communications, having previously served as a director at Hogarth Partnership and MHP Communications.He will focus on expanding Weber Shandwick's crisis and issues capabilities across EMEA, leveraging his expertise in crisis preparation, mitigation, and response.Rod Clayton Transitions to Head of Risk and Advisory, EMEA. Clayton, a Weber Shandwick veteran of 28 years, will take on a newly created role focused on advising senior executives and boards.He will help clients identify, manage, and communicate about operational challenges and potential reputational risks.Together, Fry and Clayton's leadership, alongside Weber Shandwick's existing team of crisis and reputation management specialists, positions the firm to address a wide range of challenges faced by clients in the region.These challenges include:Misinformation and disinformationCybersecurity threatsArtificial intelligence (AI) integrationGeopolitical issuesEmployee and labour relationsBrand safetyGovernment and regulatory affairsBusiness operationsLitigationOrganisational changeBusiness and financial communicationsThis strategic expansion underscores Weber Shandwick's commitment to providing clients with a data-driven and human-led approach to navigating complex crisis situations across the EMEA region and globally.

Tinder has chosen The Academy to handle its creative earned media campaigns in the UK market, following a competitive pitch process.Founded by Mitch Kaye and Dan Glover a decade ago, The Academy boasts an impressive client list including Amazon, Disney, and Mastercard. While remaining tight-lipped about the new addition, The Academy is known for its innovative campaigns.Tinder, part of the Match Group, previously partnered with agencies like Weber Shandwick, W Communications, and Ogilvy Paris. Interestingly, Tinder intends to maintain these collaborations for project-based work.The Academy's win comes amidst a period of growth. The agency, a finalist for PRovoke Media's EMEA consumer agency of the year award, saw fee income increase by 9% last year, reaching £6.5 million.This expansion is further reflected in their recent creation of dedicated "columns" within their structure. Sophie Pettifer, who joined in 2016 during the Shine merger, will spearhead an entertainment column. Meanwhile, Sam Beecham, joining in 2017, will lead a newly formed sports column, assuming the title of Head of Sport.

Stephanie Shelton has recently assumed the role of Executive Vice President of Client Experience at Current Global's healthcare practice. In this capacity, she will play a pivotal role in enhancing The Weber Shandwick Collective and bolstering IPG’s healthcare business.With her extensive background, including her recent tenure as a senior partner at FleishmanHillard, Shelton brings valuable expertise to steer communication strategies for flagship pharmaceutical clients of both Current and IPG. Additionally, she will spearhead new business ventures and initiatives across various brands.Reporting directly to Global Chief Client and Growth Officer Renee Austin from the Chicago hub, Shelton's appointment signifies a strategic move to leverage her diverse skill set in traditional healthcare, corporate health, and consumer health domains.Austin emphasized Shelton's contributions, stating, "Stephanie adds a unique blend of traditional healthcare, corporate health, and consumer health experience to our team. Her wealth of experience in reputation management, awareness elevation, brand enhancement, and behavior change through impactful campaigns and integrated media strategies is invaluable."Shelton's arrival follows a successful five-year tenure at Fleishman, where she held the positions of Senior Vice President and Senior Partner. Prior to that, she served as Managing Director at W2O Group and spent nearly twelve years at Edelman, further enriching her expertise in the field.

Chris McCafferty, who served as group CEO of MSL London and sustainability consultancy Salterbaxter, is departing the firm. Taking his place is Rebecca Grant, former CEO of BCW London, who will now lead as chief executive of Publicis’ UK Influence practice.In her new role, Grant will helm MSL, Taylor Herring, and Salterbaxter, while also expanding her responsibilities as EMEA chief client officer for Publicis' influence practice within the French-owned holding group.McCafferty, having led for over four years, has chosen to step down to pursue fresh challenges. Reflecting on his tenure, he expressed pride in fostering inclusive growth and prioritizing people-centric decisions. He emphasized the transformative impact on both commercial and personnel fronts, noting the industry's positive reception to their approach.As CEO of Publicis Groupe UK’s influence practice, Grant will drive growth strategies for existing agencies, collaborating with agency leaders and the Publicis Groupe UK executive committee. Her role as chief client officer will concentrate on identifying novel avenues to create value for multi-market clients. Grant will report directly to Demet Ikiler, CEO of Publicis Groupe EMEA.Grant arrives with a wealth of experience, having spent 13 years at BCW, where she held positions including CEO for BCW UK and global chief brand officer. Notably, she spearheaded the merger of Cohn & Wolfe and Burson-Marsteller in the UK before assuming the role of CEO in 2018. Prior to her tenure at BCW, Grant held leadership roles at Cohn & Wolfe and Weber Shandwick, among others.Grant's team will include Jo Grierson, managing director of MSL, James Herring and Cath Taylor, co-founders of Taylor Herring, and Steve Lindsay, managing director of Salterbaxter.Commenting on Grant's appointment, Publicis Groupe EMEA CEO Demet Ikiler commended her leadership prowess and proven track record of driving innovation and growth. Ikiler expressed confidence in Grant's ability to advance the Influence practice in the UK and expand solutions across EMEA, collaborating with agency leaders in the region. Ikiler also extended best wishes to McCafferty in his future endeavors.In response, Grant expressed enthusiasm for joining Publicis Groupe UK during a period of substantial growth and innovation, particularly in AI and data intelligence. She looks forward to building on the foundation laid by the agency portfolio and ushering in a new phase of growth, recognizing the pivotal role of influence in brand and business success.

Weber Shandwick West is making a power move to expand its regional presence, promoting two industry veterans to key leadership roles.Cheryl Cook takes the helm as Los Angeles market leader, leveraging her 30-year career, including eight years at Edelman, to drive growth in the LA market.Lee Anderson-Brooke steps up as the first-ever West Coast tech lead, drawing on his experience as senior principal at Weber's management consultancy and former Weber Shandwick executive VP to spearhead the agency's tech focus across the West Coast.These strategic hires, as President Jordan Rittenberry emphasizes, are part of Weber Shandwick West's commitment to becoming a "serious player" in the western US tech sector."We see significant opportunities," says Rittenberry, "and we're building the team to ensure we can scale and grow our business."This growth strategy also includes a focus on corporate affairs and C-suite advisory. Last year, Christian Brown was appointed as both Seattle market leader and the firm's regional corporate affairs lead, demonstrating the agency's commitment to comprehensive client service.Promoting Cook and Anderson-Brooke reflects a broader leadership shift under Jim O'Leary, who joined Weber Shandwick in 2023 as North America CEO. O'Leary's focus on strategic growth has included key hires like Rittenberry and Central region president Sheila Mulligan, both veterans from Edelman.Weber Shandwick West is clearly positioning itself as a major force in the western US market, with a strong emphasis on both regional expansion and specialized expertise in tech and corporate communications.

Weber Shandwick is stepping up its efforts to diversify its healthcare practice with the launch of a new fellowship programme specifically designed for Black undergraduate students.Called HealthFellows, the programme targets STEM-focused Black students and is developed in partnership with the Ron Brown Scholar Program, a renowned leadership development organisation.The 32-week pilot programme equips participants with vital skills in communication, marketing, digital content creation, client management, and hands-on experience through real-world client projects.Weber Shandwick boasts an ambitious goal: hiring 80% of the inaugural class upon graduation.This initiative tackles a crucial challenge in healthcare PR: the lack of diversity in communication teams, hindering effective outreach to diverse populations."Representation is critical," emphasizes Jamie Dowd, president of Weber Shandwick Health Americas. "Our staff needs to reflect the audiences we serve, and this program fosters that change."Judith Harrison, Chief DE&I Officer at Weber Shandwick, highlights the programme's strategic design: "Matching Ron Brown Scholars' STEM expertise with our science-based communication needs creates a powerful synergy."Building a Brighter Future:The inaugural class includes seven talented individuals: Asha Yearwood (Northwestern), Brianna Freeman (Vanderbilt), Brooke Solomon (Howard), Harmony Arungwa (University of Pittsburgh), Jahnea Pressley (Temple), Jonathan Goshu (Brown), and Jordan Richardson (Howard).By nurturing the next generation of Black communication professionals in healthcare, Weber Shandwick and the Ron Brown Scholar Program are paving the way for more inclusive and impactful communication in the healthcare industry.This programme builds upon a longstanding partnership between Weber Shandwick and the Ron Brown Scholar Program.By investing in diverse talent and fostering career development in healthcare communication, Weber Shandwick sets a positive example for the industry, promoting meaningful representation and effective communication within healthcare.

Weber Shandwick has elevated Alison McMillon and Laura Cederberg to pivotal leadership roles, completing its Central region executive team.With two decades of service at Weber Shandwick, McMillon takes the helm as the agency's Dallas market leader. Previously serving as an executive VP and deputy general manager in Dallas, she spearheaded global, integrated programs. McMillon boasts a versatile career, having excelled in corporate, B2B, crisis and issues, consumer, and internal communications.Simultaneously, Cederberg assumes the role of Minneapolis market leader. Having joined Weber Shandwick four years ago, she most recently held the position of senior VP on the corporate and public affairs team. Cederberg's earlier experience includes a role in politics, where she served as the spokesperson for former Minnesota Gov. Mark Dayton and Lt. Gov. Tina Smith.Both Cederberg and McMillon will report to Central region president Sheila Mulligan, who took on her role last August after a 17-year tenure with Edelman. The regional team also comprises Dave Collett in St. Louis and Katie Adams in Detroit.Sheila Mulligan expressed confidence in the new appointments, stating, "Weber Shandwick has long held a leadership position in the Central region and possesses extensive experience across dominant industries, from agriculture to industrials. Alison and Laura are the ideal leaders for this transformative moment, bringing combined experience across sectors and stakeholders, coupled with deep roots in these key markets."The move to appoint McMillon and Cederberg as market leaders is part of a broader restructuring of senior leadership initiated by Jim O’Leary. O’Leary, who assumed the role of Weber Shandwick's North America CEO after stepping down from his position as Edelman’s US COO and corporate affairs chair a year ago, has focused on refining strategy and making key hires, including seasoned professionals like Mulligan and Weber Shandwick West president Jordan Rittenberry, as well as senior advisor Ashley Etienne, a communications strategist with experience working with Presidents Barack Obama and Joe Biden, and Vice President Kamala Harris.