PHD’s Middle East & North Africa (MENA) operations is ending the year with a slew of changes in its senior management. Individual achievements at the agency have been recompensed with promotions and new responsibilities as part of the agency’s expansion into new services and new territories.

Hassan Shoker, previously the head of investments for PHD UAE, will now take on a regional role at PHD MENA, actively participating in the expansion of the network into Egypt, Lebanon and Saudi Arabia, among other markets. Over the years, Mr Shoker has led his team to deliver on clients’ accountability targets, as well as created solutions to deliver higher value and efficiencies across the board.

The network’s social media services will be absorbed into a wider content offering that places data and analytics at its heart to produce strategic and targeted content solutions. This new department, which will spearhead the creative and innovation agenda for the agency and its clients, will be led by Ian Dolan, who’s been promoted to the newly created role of Head of Strategy and Content.

Since opening its doors in Dubai in 2006, the Omnicom Media Group-owned network has continuously enhanced its position. After doubling in size last year alone, PHD has grown by more 600 percent in the last decade. This is the result of the network’s determination in finding a better way, creating a cutting-edge service offering and strengthening its client portfolio. Due to impressive performance on their accounts, Sandra Essa and Stephanie Medlege have both been promoted to the role of Associate Director–Planning. In this new role, the two leaders will further contribute to their clients’ success with strategic thinking and seamless execution.

“When I joined PHD eight years ago, it was impossible to predict the incredible journey we were about to have together. Looking back, it has been a phenomenal experience of growth, not just for me personally or the agency, but also our exceptionally talented team and the brands that are like family to us. These well-deserved promotions are a sign that our collective progress is made up of individual achievements and excellence. Together, with our clients, we are dedicated to continuing this shared journey of growth for the benefit of all,” commented Elda Choucair, CEO of PHD MENA.