Dentsu Aegis Network today announced the appointment of Koji Watanabe as Managing Director of the newly launched advertising agency, Dentsu Middle East & Africa. The launch of Dentsu MEA takes Dentsu Aegis Network MENA’s tally of brands up to six along with Carat, iProspect, Isobar, Posterscope and Vizeum.
Reporting to Michael Nederlof, CEO of Dentsu Aegis Network MENA, Watanabe will take charge of account and product management for Dentsu’s clients in all of the 54 MEA markets and look to employ the global network’s synergies within the region. Watanabe has been with the network for over 20 years and joins Dentsu Aegis Network MENA from his native Japan, having previously spent extensive time in Dentsu Alpha in Vietnam as well as in the Philippines.
As Managing Director, Watanabe will look to expand and build Dentsu MEA’s client base, especially with Japanese clients looking to expand into the Middle East and Africa, as well as local brands in the region. The agency already has Honda as one of its clients.
Speaking about Watanabe’s appointment, Michael Nederlof, CEO of Dentsu Aegis Network MENA said, “It was always earmarked to introduce Dentsu into the region and the agency’s offering to our clients as part of our suite of brands in the network. With Dubai’s geographical location, Dentsu Aegis Network MENA will offer Dentsu the opportunity to access Western and European markets alike. The appointment of Koji allows us to move forward in this delivery and with him he brings an abundance of experience from within our network to really add tremendous value to both new and existing clients.”
Speaking about his appointment, Koji Watanabe, Managing Director of Dentsu MEA said, “With the Middle East and Africa outpacing other regions of the world in terms of growth, it presents a fantastic opportunity for Dentsu to capitalize on both Japanese and international brands wanting to move into the region. This, coupled with our unique business methods, will ensure we deliver unparalleled results for our clients.”