Leo Burnett has made a major foray in the Jordanian advertising scene by officially announcing the opening of its brand new, full-fledged premises. To celebrate the launch of Leo Burnett Jordan, over 400 guests including clients, partners, suppliers and major businesses gathered at a reception hosted by the Leo Burnett MENA management in the grounds of its new office.

The Leo Burnett management included Farid Chehab, Chairman MENA & CCO CEEMEA, Raja Trad, CEO MENA Region, Maher Achi, COO MENA, and Kamil Kuran, Regional Managing Director of the Levant Area.

The opening also officially announced the appointment of Ms. Joëlle Jammal as the Managing Director of the Amman office.

Ms. Jammal, with more than 10 years of experience in the communication field, will be running the Amman office, which has built a professional team of consultants offering integrated Brand Advertising, Public Relations and Media services.

Speaking to the guest, Raja Trad, CEO MENA Region, said: 'Our decision to expand within Amman comes from our conviction that Jordan has become a promising market that can hold its own on the regional level. Leo Burnett Jordan will have the support of our regional network; with the team of experts that we have in Amman today, we are primed to offer the best in integrated communication and brand building.'

Kamil Kuran, Regional Managing Director for the Levant area, stressed on the importance of the Jordanian market and what it represents in terms of priority for Leo Burnett: 'By realizing the importance of Jordan early on as a new destination for growth, we have decided to expand on that initial step by opening a full-fledged office in the heart of Amman'. He added: 'During the past few years, Jordan has proven to be a country that is open to world-class advertising, and this is where we see the potential of our dedicated presence.'

Joëlle Jammal, newly appointed Managing Director, said: 'We are committed to growing and expanding and our long term vision is to attain sustainable growth with a solid client base, considering that we are already honored to be working with some of the major corporations and companies in the kingdom. Our dedicated staff is looking forward to the challenge especially in those times where Creativity and Big Ideas make the real difference.'

Since its inception in 1981 as the first multinational agency in the region, the Leo Burnett Middle East and North Africa group of companies has always been progressive in its thinking and approach.

From a single brand agency, Leo Burnett as a group has grown to encompass a comprehensive range of communications solutions, including advertising, media, public relations, digital and CRM.

The group offers both specialization and holistic integration to answer the ever-changing needs of both clients and the marketplace.

Today, the group has offices in Dubai, Jeddah, Riyadh, Kuwait, Cairo, Beirut, Casablanca and Amman.

A network team of more than 500 talented employees is committed to enhancing their clients' competitive advantage through an integrated, multidisciplinary communications approach that converts brand buyers into brand believers.

Venture Communications, a leading independent full-service communications agency based out of the Boutique Offices in Dubai Media City, celebrated its 3^rd year with the recent appointment three client servicing professionals.
 
Chief Executive Officer Gabby Bechara Chamat expressed his satisfaction over the growth of the agency in the past three years, starting from 10 staff to more than 30 staff, covering all communications disciplines. The agency provides media buying, branding, creative, production, and PR services, including event management such as festivals.
 
Chamat announced the appointment of Ellen Samano as Client Services Director, Bernie-Lou D’Souza as Account Manager, and Lisa Anderson as Account Executive.
 
Samano has 16 years of agency work involving business management, brand planning, consumer insights, and client management. Before joining Venture Communications, Samano held the position of Business Unit Director at Publicis-Manila, Inc. where she was the overall lead person responsible for the strategic directions for the brands handled and was also in charge of business development as well as client servicing.
 
D’Souza has over two years of experience with Fortune Promoseven of McCann WorldGroup in Dubai. She has been involved in strategic marketing planning, project management, advertising, direct marketing, branding, and event management.
 
Anderson has a Media and Advertising degree from the UK and has over two years of experience with administration work. She has provided support to the sales executives of the advertising department of Condé Nast Publications while in the UK.
 
Chamat also announced the appointment of Art Los Banos as Senior PR Manager. Los Banos has more than 10 years of PR experience. He was formerly connected with regional PR agencies Trans-Arabian Creative Communications and Asda’a. Los Banos started his career in the Philippines as a journalist and political analyst. He held the position of Corporate Affairs and Communications Manager at United Laboratories, the biggest pharmaceutical company in the Philippines, before relocating to Dubai in 2001.
 
Commenting on the recent appointments, Chamat said: “We are delighted to have attracted qualified, talented and experienced professionals. We are therefore looking forward to the continued growth of the company in all communications disciplines.”  

Memac Ogilvy Public Relations has been appointed to represent the Middle Eastern wing of Céline Dion's spectacular world tour. The artist who is launching her new album 'Taking Chances' will also be wooing crowds to classic hits such as 'My Heart will go On and On' at Four Seasons Hotel, Dubai, on 5th March.

Céline Dion will be enchanting Dubai with her presence at Four Season's Golf Club Dubai Festival City on March 5th, 2008 (Doors open at 16:30, concert starts at 20:30 sharp). Be prepared to be put in a trance by the music diva’s overwhelming vocal powers which have captivated audiences the world over.

The concert which also marks Dubai’s debut diva performance in 2008 is expecting a quick sell-out. Céline Dion is the biggest selling female artist of all time with 175 million records sold worldwide. “This will be Céline’s first visit to the Gulf and the Middle East, she is very excited to be bringing her show to a place she has never been to before. Accompanying her on her trip will be her husband, who is of Middle Eastern origin but will also be visiting the region for the very first time” comments Duncan Heafield, representing Kusasa, the entity assuring the smooth sailing of Céline’s South African and Middle East tour, ‘Taking Chances’, which is set to be the world’s most publicized and anticipated music tour of the 21st Century. Céline Dion’s World tour will be covering all corners of the globe, making stops in Africa, the Middle East, Japan, Korea, China, Australia, New Zealand, Europe and the America’s, including 25 countries and in over 100 cities.
 
Organizing such a large scale production considering the challenging terrain of the venue has not been an easy operation. To top this off, event organizers are striving to ease the traffic in the area on the evening of the concert. “We have chosen an extraordinary venue which compliments the artist’s image. Both our local and international teams have worked hand in hand to confront the mega challenges encountered in hosting the concert at Four Seasons Golf Club. With Dubai’s traffic problem in mind, we have set adequate plans with the Dubai Festival City team to ensure maximum comfort for parking space, with clear signs and traffic controllers to guide people. We are also providing shuttle buses to the venue from the parking lot, as well as having the option to walk to the entrance” reassures Tony Haswani, Event organizer for the Middle East wing of the tour.

Four Seasons Golf Club, a high end venue exuding sophistication and prestige, will be hosting its first ever concert on 5th March 2008. “'Four Seasons is delighted to be the venue of choice for the Celine Dion 'Taking Chances' Dubai concert” comments Bahram Sepahi, Regional Vice President and General Manager Four Seasons Dubai. The pop icon, who is set to perform some of her legendary classic numbers, will also be wooing crowds to the melody of her latest album ‘Taking Chances’.

Dubai’s multicultural landscape will be reaching out and embracing the pop diva when she arrives in March. Blessed with one of popular music's great voices, she has crossed all barriers - even that of language - with her electrifying series of international hits. Céline has been called the premier contemporary pop vocalist of the Nineties. She has earned music industry accolades from around the world: Grammy Awards in the US, Juno and Felix Awards in Canada, and World Music Awards in Europe. Céline's international breakthrough came when she recorded the title track for the soundtrack to the animated Disney hit movie 'Beauty and the Beast, picking up an Academy Award and a Grammy Award. This was shortly followed by the block buster Titanic’s song “My Heart will go On” which won the Academy award for Best Original Song.

Hurry up and book your tickets online through www.showbizme.com, or by calling Hotline: +971 4 366 2277. Heads up, tickets will also go on sale in-store mid February.

Itisaluna Abr Al Iraq, the latest National Wireless Fixed Voice and Data Telecommunications Company in Iraq, and Action Global Communications (Action PR) have recently signed a partnership which is considered to be a milestone in Itisaluna's strategy with regard to public relations.

According to this partnership, Action PR will handle all aspects of Itisaluna public relations and media consultancy in the region. In this context, Action PR has tailored a public relations strategy which aims at introducing Itisaluna's services and technology to societies and the public arena.

This tailor-made strategy will include public and media activities and promotional campaigns in aid of Itisaluna aspiration to achieve a leap in telecommunications and provide a wide range of high-tech services to individuals, companies, and the Iraqi society. This in turn will reflect positively on the stability of Iraq and enhance economic growth.

An official spokesperson from Itisaluna commented on the importance of such partnership saying 'Due to our strong believe in the vital role of public relations in enhancing the performance of businesses and contributing to their success through different methods of public relations, this partnership has come to an effect. We have chosen Action PR for this role as it is the first specialized company in the field of public relations and enjoys an outstanding record supported by a reservoir of experts in public relations.'

On the other hand, Action PR Management stated that 'we are very proud to announce today the signing of a partnership with Itisaluna to provide public relations and media consultancy services. This tailor-made public relation trategy addresses the specific needs of Itisaluna and introduces the company to other Arab countries as the latest Iraqi Wireless Local Loop provider in Iraq.'

Itisaluna is due to launch in the near future its wireless voice and internet services in Iraq using the latest available version of CDMA2000 which is a third generation (3G) wireless technology, providing excellent voice clarity and internet communications to users at home or at work.

Users can benefit from all the features of this system which include additional options such as short messages, voicemail, call forward, call waiting, video conferencing, and caller's line identification, in addition to many other services.

Itisaluna will provide the Iraqi public with purpose-built handsets and devises compatible with CDMA2000 which come in different types and competitive prices to make it affordable to everyone.

Pharmacy One, the Kingdom's leading pharmacy chain, signed an agreement with The Holding Group (THG) Jordan to enhance its internal communication skills and customer care services in all its branches.

Beiersdorf Middle East FZCO has awarded its coveted PR business to TRACCS, one of the leading PR agencies in the Middle East and regional affiliate of global PR firm Fleishman-Hillard with effect from 1 January 2008.

Following a closely run final pitch, Beiersdorf Middle East decided not to retain their existing partners, Weber Shandwick. Beiersdorf Middle East Managing Director Robert Taylor-Hughes said, 'Weber Shandwick has been very supportive and I would like to publicly thank them for their sterling work over the previous years'.

In bringing TRACCS on board as its PR partner in the Middle East, he cited the regional agency's in-depth understanding of the company's portfolio of leading skin care and beauty products as one of the reasons. 'TRACCS won the final pitch through being highly creative and very passionate about taking our brand to the next level and by having a very strong integrated regional capability, particularly in Saudi Arabia' Robert Taylor-Hughes added.

TRACCS Deputy Managing Director Majdi Al-Ayed welcomed the new account and said: 'This is an excellent win, and further demonstrates the creative and strategic depth of our agency, and underscores the capabilities of our regional network in the Middle East. We are looking forward to rolling out programs across the region on behalf of Beiersdorf, which houses some of the world's most reputed skin and beauty care brands.'

Promoseven / MCN group retains the Beiersdorf BTL and online business, while creative remains with TBWA. OMD handles the regional media buying.

BPG Public Relations, part of the BPG Group - one of the leading integrated marketing communications groups in the Middle East, has signed up as the Public Relations consultancy for Qatar-based NGO Reach Out to Asia (ROTA).

BPG Public Relations is currently developing a communications programme centering on enhancing the strong brand values and reputation which ROTA enjoys in line with its vision, aimed at helping create an Asia where all children will have access to education and its benefits.

Oliver Stelling, Chief Operating Officer of BPG Public Relations, said: 'BPG Public Relations is looking forward to add value to the image of ROTA through our PR endeavours. Our concerted efforts are centered on leveraging our expertise in the region into focused and effective communications strategies for ROTA. This relationship looks to synergize the strengths of both the partners to ensure best results for ROTA.'

Omnia Nour, Director of Reach Out To Asia, said: 'We are confident of BPG Public Relations' commitment and zeal towards helping us achieve our goals. It has been over a month now that we have been working with them, and we can already see improvement in the way we are perceived in Qatar and the region.'

Omnia added: 'Communicating the correct message is vital to ensure our continued success, and we were looking for a regional marketing communications partner with proven expertise in Qatar and the GCC region and a thorough understanding of our strategy. We are confident that BPG Public Relations is the right consultancy to help us achieve this.'

BPG Group is a brand that best exemplifies the adage 'think global, act local', with 210 dedicated professionals from 28 different nationalities across a network spanning the region.

Formed under the Qatar Foundation umbrella, ROTA is a Qatari non-governmental organization.

Arab Media Group (AMG), the largest media group in the United Arab Emirates, and MTV Networks International (MTVNI) has announced the expansion of their long-term partnership to launch Nickelodeon Arabia, a localised, Arabic language free-to-air channel dedicated exclusively to kids across the Middle East.

With this agreement, Nickelodeon will be the first global kids' media brand to create a free-to-air Arabic service across the region, while being respectful and reflective of local culture and values. The channel will fall under the umbrella of Arabian Television Network (ATN), AMG's TV broadcasting arm that also incorporates the soon-to-launch MTV Arabia and three other stations that will launch before the end of 2007.

The 24-hour channel - slated to launch in 2008 - will broadcast via satellite to 36 million TV households, with a potential audience of 190 million people across the region. Programming will include a mix of international content from Nickelodeon's extensive global portfolio and original local Arabic productions.

The channel will be supported by an Arabic website which will provide users with a comprehensive online community and a wide range of interactive elements. Nickelodeon is the most widely distributed kids' brand in the world, and has built a diverse global portfolio by creating and packaging multi-platform branded content dedicated to connecting with kids.

Abdullatif Al Sayegh, CEO of Arab Media Group, commented: 'Arab Media Group is dedicated to providing audiences in this region with what they want to see, hear and read. Through our extensive understanding of the market, we have identified entertainment niches that were ripe for opportunity, and quality children's programming is certainly one of them. Nickelodeon will provide the best in world-standard entertainment for children, raising standards in the region and setting a strong precedent for the future.'

Bhavneet Singh, Managing Director and Senior Vice President, Emerging Markets Group, MTVNI, commented: 'We are really proud to announce our continued partnership Arab Media Group to make the Nickelodeon brand available to kids across the Middle East and the Gulf. The launch of Nickelodeon Arabia is a part of our wider, ongoing multi-platform strategy encompassing consumer products, digital media, hotels and theme parks, which we hope will establish Nickelodeon as the premier destination for kids in the region.'

The partnership between AMG and MTVNI Emerging Markets signals the next step in establishing a multi-brand, multi-platform MTVNI portfolio across the Middle East. MTV Arabia, the region's first and only youth lifestyle brand, is set to launch next month in partnership with AMG. The fully localised, free-to-air channel will showcase both international and Arabic music as well as a balanced mix of international MTV content, Arabic productions of popular MTV formats and local original programming concepts. Discussions are also currently under way regarding consumer products, recreation and digital rights opportunities in the region.

Bill Roedy, Vice Chairman, MTV Networks commented: 'Adding the voices of Arab children to our worldwide Nickelodeon family is a significant milestone in our history, and advances our ambitious strategy to build a portfolio of integrated kids businesses across the region. The Middle East is a dynamic, thriving market with vast growth opportunities, and we look forward to launching even more MTVNI brands and businesses through our successful partnership with AMG.'

MTVNI's Emerging Markets is the fastest growing region in the company's portfolio of multi-platform businesses. The Emerging Markets group manages 21 television channels, 19 websites, two broadband channels and three mobile TV channels encompassing the MTV, VH1, Nickelodeon, VIVA and Comedy Central brands in Russia, Central & Eastern Europe, Central Asia and the Middle East. MTVNI is owned by Viacom Inc (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B).

The Catevo Group Middle East and North Africa has been officially confirmed as the only full member of the WorldCom Public Relations Group authorized to serve the entire MENA region. Members of the world most prestigious public relations alliance will now be able to utilize Catveo's capabilities and extensive expertise in Middle East and North Africa. Local companies can also capitalize on this membership to extend their communications reach to the world.

The Catevo Group Middle East and North Africa started operations in the region earlier this year as a direct investment of The Catevo Group Worldwide. An official launch of the operations will take place on October 20th. The company combines over 100 years of expertise in public relations, management consulting, technology and integrated communications.

Speaking at the WorldCom EMEA fall meeting last Friday in Palma De Mallorca, Spain, Jihad Soaileek, PR & Media Director, The Catevo Group Middle East and North Africa explained the company's unique strategic public relations and research approach that gives the Middle East and North Africa a full range of services and campaign effectiveness measures.

"Because we are a client-centric company, we build our solutions around the actual need sof our clients in order to help them maximize their return on PR investment," Soaileek said. "Our multicultural team, along with our extensive understanding of the region's business-to-business models and our long expertise in various communications fields, are the right choice for companies looking for effective, productive and measurable public relations solutions."

"We have a commitment to work with our WorldCom partners to provide our joint clients with success tools that guarantee them the right reputation and brand positioning in the Middle East and North Africa," said Dr. Mitch Javidi, President and CEO, The Catevo Group Worldwide. Present at the meeting to introduce the local team was Mike Herman, Vice Chairman for Global Development and Dr. Javidi.

In his presentation, Soaileek explained to over 60 seasoned CEOs of PR companies from across the EMEA region about the importance of relying on a local partner while designing strategic communications plans for global companies. "The Middle East is a diversified, fast growing market and unless you have the right understanding of the local factors, the chances are low that you will reach your target goals", he added.

"What we offer our local and global partners is simply the ability to reach out to the right audiences in this region, effectively using result oriented solutions that match the cultural patterns of the Middle East and North Africa. In plain English, we don't translate; we strategize on your behalf".

The WorldCom Public Relations Group is the world's largest network of independent public relations firms with 105 member firms in 38 countries.

Dubai-headquartered GMMOS Group, a diversified fabrication and manufacturing specialist in oil & gas, ship building and repair, chartering and construction, has appointed GolinHarris as its PR agency of record to handle its global B2B and corporate communications requirements.

'We have found in GolinHarris the best partner to communicate our highly specialised services and products portfolio to our expansive list of current and potential local, regional and international clients,' said Elias Nassif, President & CEO, GMMOS Group.

Multi-award winning corporate communications specialist GolinHarris has been retained to provide the full spectrum of strategic consultancy and public relations services targeting selected markets and regions of key interest to the GMMOS Group of companies.

GolinHarris Regional Managing Director, Gregory Tikhanoff, said: 'GMMOS Group is one of the region's most prestigious and longest established manufacturing players employing international quality production and safety standards and human resource processes and we are extremely pleased to have won their trust in entering into partnership with us.

'UAE and regional companies operating in key industries such as energy, manufacturing, shipping, aviation and construction have evolved into true global players with increasing needs to communicate beyond the Mid East and at GolinHarris we possess the necessary global network and talent to help our partners achieve their international aspirations.'

GolinHarris recently celebrated 50 years of operations and has experienced steady growth since launching its regional office in Dubai four years ago. As part of the Interpublic Group of Companies (NYSE:IPG), GolinHarris' reach extends to more than 4,000 multinational, regional and local clients in 130 countries around the world. GolinHarris presence in the Middle East has expanded to currently cover United Arab Emirates, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Lebanon and Egypt.

USAID-funded Sustainable Achievement of Business Expansion and Quality Program (SABEQ) through its Deputy Chief of Party Carol Swan and the CEOs of six companies have signed individual indefinite quantity agreements to provide the marketing communications series for the coming four years.This is in line with SABEQ's objective to create opportunities for Jordanians.

The six companies were selected after an open competition process beginning with a request for proposal that was issued in June 2007. The companies selected to support the USAID-funded SABEQ Program in its initiatives are: Asdaa', Insight, I Relations, Borouj-momentum DDB, Prisma, and Razorview.

The selected companies will provide services in support of the SABEQ Program objectives in a variety of communications consulting activities, including, but not limited to the strategy development and planning for the public awareness campaigns as called for in SABEQ's Year 2 work plan. These awareness campaigns will support the efforts in key sectors such as Agriculture, Medical Services, Pharmaceuticals, Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) which concerns Contact Centers as a segment. In addition the campaigns will work to change mindsets among Jordanians relative to the perception of employment barriers.

Speaking at the event, SABEQ Program Chief of Party Rodrigo Ortiz noted the importance of such partnerships with local firms, 'The focus of our work in Jordan is in part to increase people's awareness regarding opportunities in the various areas of employment, and to encourage them to take pride in their work and to do that work well. We all have here an opportunity to tap into the talents and expertise of Jordanian firms to reach this goal.'

SABEQ's focus on various sectors is designed to improve productivity each on the sector to facilitate growth of the Jordanian economy. The other sectors the program is focusing on include: architecture and engineering, ICT, packaging, financial services, local economic development, as well as apparel and light manufacturing. The program is also involved in the crucial topics of water, energy and environment conservation.

The USAID-funded Sustainable Achievement of Business Expansion and Quality Program (SABEQ) is a five year broad economic development initiative implemented by BearingPoint, Inc. and a sizeable team of international and Jordanian partner firms. By both supporting improvements in the business environment and providing assistance to expand innovation and productivity in Jordanian businesses, to support the main objective of building up the private sector as a powerful engine of economic growth.

Emirates Arthritis Foundation has chosen Etisal, Dubai's leading public relations and event management firm to handle its portfolio relating to events and conferences.

Emirates Arthritis Foundation was founded in April 2006 under the patronage of H.R.H. Princess Haya Bint Al Hussein, wife of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashed Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The aim of the Foundation is to raise awareness of the over 100 types of arthritis in existence and improve patients' lives through highlighting the ways of managing the disease and projecting the latest remedies available internationally to fight the malaise.

The Co-coordinator of the Emirates Arthritis Foundation, Kathryn Ronalds said, "Our cooperation with Etisal is due to its' distinguished position among public relations companies in the region and because of its elite clientele."

Kathryn added that the Foundation had chosen Etisal because of their achievements to date and their comprehensive expertise in public relations, event management and fundraising initiatives.

She expressed the hope that by utilizing the services of Etisal, The Emirates Arthritis Foundation will be able to achieve its aim to improve the lives of those who suffer from arthritis by assisting and guiding patients on how to manage this disease. "We will work to educate and offer medical treatment by highlighting our activities and events and popularizing them to the widest section of society through the mass media, channeled through Etisal," she said.

Mrs. Nada Jaber, Etisal Managing Director said: 'We feel happy and pleased that the Emirates Arthritis Foundation has entrusted Etisal to handle all their activities relating to public relations and events. We are absolutely confident that our experienced staff will project the foundation in the best light within different mass media.'

The Emirates Foundation has already established an endowment fund to offer financial assistance to patients unable to afford their medication.

Dubai Municipality has joined hands with PR Newswire, the global leader in news distribution, to spread news and information about the international conference it organises next year on coastal and port engineering in developing countries.

Farhan Hassan Al Marzouqi, Head of Media Committee of the 7th International Conference on Coastal and Port Engineering in Developing Countries (COPEDEC), said the partnership would help raise the profile of the conference globally thanks to the trust and confidence enjoyed by PR Newswire among journalists, on-line news feeds and media organisations worldwide.

The conference and a concurrent exhibition of products and services will be held during 24-28 February 2008 at the Intercontinental Hotel in Dubai Festival City.

"This conference comes at a crucial time as the Arabian Gulf braces for US$100 billion worth waterfront developments. All countries of the region including the UAE, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia are planning ambitious coastal projects that attract global attention. It is therefore very important that we publicise the event internationally," said Al Marzouqi, who also heads the Media Section at the Public Relations and Organisations Department of Dubai Municipality.

He noted that the wide reach of PR Newswire in each and every region of the world will help bring the conference the attention it deserves. "We are planning to launch a massive media campaign in this regard in cooperation with the firm," said Al Marzouqi.

Jeremy Derenne, PR Newswire EMEA Sales Director, said 'Following our launch in Dubai, PR Newswire is proud to be partnering with the Dubai Municipality. Communicating with the global media is what we do best and will assist in maximising their PR activities.'

The event will bring together over 1000 marine engineers and scientists from around the world to exchange know-how and experience. An International panel of renowned marine scientists has already selected some 226 papers from 43 countries which display scientific excellence and appropriateness to the conference themes. Several papers deal with the ambitious marine activities in Dubai in particular and in the Arabian Gulf in general.

After a comprehensive pitch process, including 4 Creative and 5 Media agencies, Power Horse, the original Premium Austrian energy drink announced today the appointment of Memac Ogilvy and Phd as their communications partners in the region.

The agreement includes the GCC, Levant and North Africa, with a special focus on Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates and Kuwait.

MEMAC Ogilvy has been appointed as their fully integrated communication partner including Advertising, PR and CRM.

Phd has been appointed to cover all media planning and buying throughout the region.

Omar El Banna, Regional Marketing Manager said: "We selected Memac Ogilvy based on their thorough understanding of our regional markets and our consumers' needs. They presented an outstanding platform that we believe will deliver on our business objectives and take our brand forward.

As for PHD's, the creative and versatile approach to media, demonstrated throughout the pitch process stood out from the other agencies. The work, delivery and content of the presentation demonstrated the high level of PHD's professionalism and excitement towards our brand.'

Power Horse, Memac Ogilvy & PHD will work together to fully reposition the Power Horse brand in the Middle Eastern markets, with an aim to become the no.1 energy brand in the region. Power Horse has the 1st mover status in KSA and Egypt and No 1 Volume share in KSA and Yemen among the premium price segment within Energy Drinks category.

General Motors Middle East Operations has appointed Memac Ogilvy Public Relations, part of the Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide network and the WPP group, as their public relations and communications agency across the region.

The appointment encompasses all five of GM's automotive brands - Cadillac, Hummer, Chevrolet, GMC and Saab, as well as the aftersales and corporate business. In addition to developing and implementing integrated PR campaigns for the brands, MOPR will be responsible for executing GM's corporate public relations and Corporate Social Responsibility programs. The appointment comes as General Motors experiences record growth in all areas of the business in the Middle East.

Commenting on the appointment, Terry Johnsson, President, GM Middle East Operations, said 'The passion that Ogilvy has shown during the selection process was very impressive. We look forward to Memac Ogilvy PR's strategic counsel on how to refine and deliver messages relevant to the market and that bring us even closer to our customers. We also look forward to their extensive support in launching new vehicles in the second half of the year, especially during our participation at the Dubai Motor show and other regional auto shows.'

Edmond Moutran, Chairman, Memac Ogilvy, says 'Our experience in the automotive industry, our regional network and our passion has been instrumental in winning the General Motors PR account. I extend my personal commitment to GM and look forward to a long and lasting partnership'

Ronald Howes, Managing Director, Memac Ogilvy UAE, adds, 'This is a significant win for MOPR, and one that I am proud of. This is not only because of the importance of General Motors as an automotive leader, but also because of GM's brilliant track record in the Middle East and their expansive growth potential. We are most proud of the fact that GM has entrusted us with brands that consumers have been emotionally connected with for decades. I'm confident that our long-term strategic partnership will not only lead to further growth and expansion for both GM and MOPR, but also add further value to their brands.'

In the last two years, General Motors has launched 27 new or renewed models and a number of customer focussed initiatives that have resulted in more than double the regional car sales.

Starlink, Qatar's premier telecommunications and media entertainment retailer, signed a Public Relations and Marketing agreement with Hill & Knowlton (H&K), a leading international communications consultancy, earlier this week.

Since establishing itself in late 2006, Starlink has quickly established itself as a major Partner for Qtel and Showtime and has big ambitions for changing the way people buy, experience and use communications and media.

CEO Alan Sinfield explained: 'We're moving into a new phase of our own development at a time when the communications market in Qatar is experiencing huge change, and when the international opportunities are growing. We have direct connections to customers and suppliers so we're well placed to make the most of this opportunity. Working with H&K means that we have access to a network of experienced PR professionals with the creativity and know-how to make sure we get noticed.'

Starlink is experiencing great business growth, as it continues to open branches all over Qatar and to explore regional opportunities. The company was awarded best retailer in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region earlier this month from a pool of 90 Showtime distributors. The company plans to achieve similar accolades in the communications field.

'Starlink is a hugely interesting client for us as it has clear business goals which we intend to help it meet. PR shouldn't just be about column inches but about the results of the campaign - our programme for Starlink will help ensure their strength is recognised in a changing marketplace,' commented Sara Gourlay, General Manager, Hill & Knowlton Qatar, 'We have a strong heritage in working with communications companies in the region, including Qtel and MTC. That background gives us a true understanding of the challenges and opportunities ahead for Starlink.' 

Batelco Jordan and Action Public Relations recently signed a cooperation agreement for the provision of a wide range of public relations consultations and information services in Jordan and managing major Batelco Jordan's campaigns.

The agreement was signed by Mr. Isa AbdulRahman, Director of Marketing, Customer Service and Transformation at Batelco Jordan and General Manager of Action PR Jordan Mr. Bashir Mraish.

Since its inception in 1996; Batelco Jordan has been at the forefront of the ICT industry in Jordan. Being a leader in providing internet services and business solutions, Today, Batelco Jordan is striving to be the 'Leading provider of innovative integrated communication solutions in Jordan' Using the 21st century cutting-edge next generation network infrastructure coupled with consistent execution of operations to improve customer experience and provide a host of innovative and converged customer solutions.

Batelco Jordan is part of Batelco Bahrain Group which runs significant operations in Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Yemen and Egypt.

"We chose Action PR because they are pioneers in the public relations sector in Jordan. Their expertise, versatility and professionalism especially in the management of public relations campaigns will ensure that Batelco Jordan's campaigns are always successful," Mr. Isa said.

Mr. Bashir Mraish said that Action PR has always been a leader in the public relations field in Jordan and the region and a major contributor to the improvement and enhancement of this key field.

Roche Pharmaceuticals and Action Public Relations recently signed a cooperation agreement for the provision of a wide range of public relations consultations and information services in Jordan.

It will also manage major Roche Jordan awareness campaigns especially breast cancer, which would contribute to enhancing awareness of this disease and combating it.

The agreement was signed by Dr. Mahmoud Al Khalidi, Sales Manager of the Roche Jordan and General Manager of Action PR Jordan Bashir Mraish.

Roche is considered a world authority in the health care sector. For more than 100 years, the Switzerland-based company has been active in the discovery, development, manufacture and marketing of novel healthcare solutions. Its products and services address prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases, thus enhancing well-being and quality of life.

"We chose Action PR because they are pioneers in the public relations sector in Jordan. Their expertise, versatility and professionalism especially in the management of public relations and awareness campaigns will ensure that Roche campaigns are always successful," Mr. Khalidi said.

Mr. Bashir Mraish said that Action PR has always been a leader in the public relations field in Jordan and the region and a major contributor to the improvement and enhancement of this key field.

Multinational industrial firm Sayegh Group has recently appointed TRACCS Jordan as its public relations agency and representative in the country. In light of this agreement, the agency will be responsible for devising and implementing strategic public relations programs for the firm in Jordan both externally and internally.

The agreement stipulates that TRACCS Jordan to develop a strategic public relations plan for Sayegh Group. The strategy which is specifically designed for the group shall be formulated according to a series of interviews, surveys and a communication audit. Accordingly, the strategy shall include objectives and key messages to be delivered to the group’s target audience in a systematic manner. The programs in the long term strategy shall aim at strengthening the group’s marketing campaigns within the Jordanian market, and to strengthen ties and establish vital relationships with existing local entities and the press corps.

The agreement was signed by Ms. Nazi Al Sayegh, Vice President for Public Relations and Quality Assurance of Al Sayegh Group, and Ms. Faten Al-Masri Kamal, Managing Director of TRACCS Jordan.

Ms. Nazi Al Sayegh commented, “The signing of this agreement with TRACCS, a company specialized in public relations, is an initiative that will enhance Sayegh Group’s leadership status within the Jordanian market, and will solidify our reputation for high quality products and services for the Jordanian market. Sayegh Group’s services have gained satisfaction throughout the region and the world, and we hope that our solid reputation will grant us further advancement in Jordan”. She went on to say, “We believe that partnering up with an agency such as TRACCS, a company with a successful track record in Jordan and the region, will provide an added value to our communications strategies.”

On her part, Ms. Al-Masri Kamal explained that since its launch in Jordan, TRACCS has managed to establish itself as a leading source in the area of public relations services in the country and the region, providing its customers with state of the art public relations programs and plans that suit their requirements and future visions.

Ms. Al-Masri Kamal added that TRACCS is proud to have signed the agreement with Sayegh Group, noting that she views areas of commonality between the two institutions in terms of a positive vision for the future as well as a constructive team spirit in its business approach.

Sayegh Group was established 70 years ago and now comprises 31 companies spread throughout the Arab world, Eastern and Western Europe and Asia. The companies are involved in different specialties, including chemical, engineering and real estate, as well as general services providing the consumer with a number of various relevant products.

National Bonds Corporation (NBC), pioneer of the first Shari'a-compliant national savings scheme in the UAE, has appointed four new Dubai-based marketing agencies to develop its communications in the region.

The newly appointed agencies include Impact BBDO as the brand creative agency, Asda'a for Public Relations, MediaVest as the media agency, and Red for event management. The review process of the agency partnerships was managed by the regional partner of Agency Assessments International, IK Consult.

The new team of agencies takes over after eleven successful months for National Bonds, in which over 250,000 people have invested in National Bonds, ten millionaires announced and over 163,000 prizes distributed to bond holders.

Nasser bin Hassan Al-Shaikh, Vice Chairman and CEO of the National Bonds Corporation, said: 'While National Bonds has grown impressively since its launch in March 2006, we recognized the need to move it to the next level and grow its profile to be the most well-known savings brand in the UAE. Paving the way for our international expansion, we wanted the best in the communications business to help us achieve our vision, and we got them.'

National Bonds is an innovative Shari'a-compliant savings scheme open to all UAE residents and visitors. It offers a safe and credible savings option with attractive annual returns while simultaneously providing an opportunity to win one million Dirhams every month and more than 16,000 prizes.

ORASCOM Hotels & Development (OHD) has recently announced that it has signed an agreement of cooperation with Action PR to promote Taba Heights, the Sinai Peninsula-based natural luxury.

Under this agreement, Action PR will offer Taba Heights media and communications services, consultations and strategic planning for Taba Heights activities and events. Action PR will also provide media services such as holding press conferences, media gatherings, public relations services, building data base, full coverage for Taba Heights events, and media monitoring.

'We are glad to sign a cooperation agreement with Action PR, this is a good opportunity to promote Taba Heights as an attractive leisure destination for the Jordanian people. We also believe in the significance of public relations nowadays, therefore we chose Action PR, whom we have had a past experience with especially during the visit of more than 25 Jordanian journalists to Taba Heights and that will certainly help in promoting our charming setting situated in the Sinai Peninsula.' said Mrs. Mayar Abdelaziz, Vice President Marketing - OHD.

The breathtaking natural setting is complemented by the lavish offerings of the five-star hotels located in Taba Heights such as that of the Hyatt Regency Hotel, Intercontinental Resort, Marriott Beach Resort, Sofitel, and TTC El Wekala Golf Resort. These worldwide hospitality leaders provide an unparalleled experience in relaxation and leisure. Each hotel offers an astonishing array of services and comforts set in innovative, state of the art facilities designed for those who wish simply to sit back and enjoy. Likewise, Taba Heights guests will enjoy adventurous trips represented in canyon motor safaris and the excitement of water world of wind surfing and scuba diving.

'We are proud of professional connections and bonds we're establishing with regional establishments and we consider Taba Heights an important member in our clientele. We at Action PR always strive to utilize our talents and our expertise and we hope to succeed in promoting Taba Heights as a preferable tourist destination for Jordanians.' said Mr. Nabil Hijazin, Managing Partner of Action PR.

OHD is the majority owner and developer of El Gouna, a seaside leisure town located on Egypt's Red Sea coast and has an active pipeline of ambitious projects in Egypt, Jordan, UAE, Oman, Mauritius and -most recently- Switzerland.

Momentumseven, an agency that sits within the Middle East Communications Network (MCN), and is best described as a demand activation agency has successfully pitched for and won the Land Rover Dubai World Cup business.

As the richest horse race in the world, the Dubai World Cup is a prestigious event and creates a positive brand association for Land Rover as both represent superb performance, precision, style and power.

Land Rover will be the official vehicle sponsor of the Dubai World Cup for the third consecutive year, and will provide 30 branded Range Rover vehicles to transport VIP's, Jockey's and their families during the racing season. In addition Land Rover will display the full premium product portfolio of vehicles at Nad El Sheba Racing grounds on the day of the Dubai World Cup - 31 March 2007.

Land Rover's brief to Momentumseven was to come up with a creative and integrated campaign that would help maximize awareness and association of Land Rover's partnership with the Dubai World Cup.

The Momentumseven team for this project will be headed by Greg Sharpe, Events Director of Momentumseven. Sharpe has five years events experience in the Middle East working on some of the region's leading brands.

Talking about the win Sharpe said, 'We are really pleased to secure such a prestigious win. The team at Momentumseven are all looking forward to activating some amazing ideas at this year's Dubai World Cup.'

The account pitch included the following elements; decals for 30 Range Rover vehicles; dealership and mall activation; online, blue tooth and customer relations. Over the coming weeks Momentumseven will be working closely with Promoseven Weber Shandwick, the agency's public relations division which currently provides public relations services for the brand, to ensure an integrated approach of all activity.

Mawaride.com, the leading in online recruitment has recently appointed ekadaa PR as its public relations agency in the Gulf region. ekadaa PR takes up the post with immediate effect.

The Dubai based company is a pioneer in e-recruitment and human resources solutions in the Middle East and North Africa with its expanding offices network in the region.

President and CEO of Mawaride.com, Dr. Azedine Almaani said: “As we reviewed various PR options, it became clear that ekadaa PR was an excellent choice to help Mawaride to build stronger presence among the media in the region.”

ekadaa PR is a full-service public relations agency that was set up in 2003, founded by managing partner Irina Sharma, ekadaa’s current clients include Lufthansa German Airlines, German National Tourist Board, Syed Alam Junaid, Clinique, Technogym, Durex and more.

Irina Sharma concluded “We are privileged to have the leaders of e-recruitment mawaride.com as our partners and look forward to joint success and growth.”