In response to the evolving needs of the communications industry in the Kingdom, OMD Arabia has undergone a management restructuring and named new general managers for its offices in Riyadh and Jeddah. The move comes after the network experienced a significant increase in billings in 2014 and prepares it for its next stage of growth.
Toni El Rahi, previously general manager of OMD Riyadh, has taken the role of business development director for OMD Arabia’s parent company, Omnicom Media Group Saudi Arabia, reporting to CEO Choucrallah Abou Samra. In this role, he will capitalize on his vast network of connections and his immense talent for identifying and securing the best client relationships across the group. El Rahi will also hold the general management responsibilities of PHD Riyadh.
Faisal Shams, previously a business unit director at OMD UAE, has been promoted to general manager for OMD Arabia. He will also manage its Riyadh office. Having gained significant experience climbing through the ranks of planning within the agency, Shams will be responsible for building the business, strengthening the brand and deepening client relationships across the Kingdom and Riyadh.
Hani Dajani has been promoted from head of planning to general manager of OMD Jeddah, reporting to Faisal Shams. His primary objective is to maintain the network’s leading position in the Jeddah market and drive its digital and innovation agendas forward.
“At a time of rapid expansion, these new appointments strengthen our position to embrace the challenges and assignments that await us,” said Choucrallah Abou Samra, CEO of Omnicom Media Group Saudi Arabia. “With his experience, Toni is ideally placed to steer growth for the whole group. Faisal has managed some of our most demanding clients in the past and demonstrated unique leadership skills. Hani has always led from the front with clients and prospects, ensuring the OMD product is of the highest quality. I have full confidence in their ability to navigate our growth and pioneer the way forward for our clients, partners and the industry.”
The appointments were effective as of January 1st, 2015.