In Conversation with EssenceMediacom’s Soumak Banik: Media Insights Unveiled
Embark on an insightful voyage through the media landscape guided by Soumak Banik, the accomplished Managing Director at EssenceMediacom Indonesia. EssenceMediacom is GroupM’s newest and largest agency that is committed to delivering marketing breakthroughs for brands in the new communications economy.
With an impressive 22-year career spanning diverse sectors, from FMCG to luxury, Soumak is a dynamic communicator thriving in high-pressure roles. His cross-functional expertise and strategic acumen shape EssenceMediacom’s innovative approach, establishing him as a luminary in the media and advertising realm. In an exclusive interview, he shares insights from his extensive journey in the Indian and Indonesian markets, offering a unique perspective on the industry’s seismic shifts, Metaverse and booming gaming sector.
Having worked in both the Indian market and as the Managing Director of EssenceMediacom Indonesia, can you share your experiences and your professional trajectory in the media and advertising industry?
Undoubtedly, like many in our industry, I emphasize that we are witnessing major seismic tectonic changes. These times are unprecedentedly exciting – truly the best of times!
In an attempt to align the experiences and exposures of the past two decades with a common understanding, I would liken the trajectory to the fundamental principles of earthly motion—simultaneously involving rotation and revolution. The circular rotation signifies the brand’s axial movement around its centricity to consumers. Concurrently, there is a revolution fueled by the extraordinary evangelism of technology, driven by the digital transformation of consumerism.
In today’s landscape, consumers are markedly more aware, informed, and neutral. They rightfully expect brands to be realistic and merit a genuine choice or loyalty. What ensues is the gravitational pull on brands to adapt – to become more creative and to contextualize their offerings along a helical pathway that aligns with consumer aspirations. Creating brand love has become a more challenging yet thrilling endeavor in our interconnected universe of media.
As a professional working in the Indonesian media market for more than a decade, what are some of the challenges you faced while transitioning from the Indian market to your current role? What shifts have you experienced in the Indonesian advertising sector and its audiences?
Asia is renowned for its rich culture. Most Asiatic countries are more culturally interconnected than diverse, mirroring the unity of their people. Culture is deeply ingrained in the heritage, language, faith, religion, food habits, ethnicity, fashion, tastes, preferences, traditions and values of its communities, people, and races – be it in South Asia or Southeast Asia. In this context, India and Indonesia stand out as prime examples.
Both nations and their respective governments are making massive investments in infrastructure and connectivity, earning them top ranks among global technology giants such as Google, Meta, and other leading Martech companies. India serves as the epicentre for investments in South Asia, while Indonesia plays a similar role for private equity firms in Southeast Asia.
Interestingly, not only are both countries experiencing significant growth in population, demographics, and geographical diversity, but they also share similar traits in consumer habits towards brands. The inquisitiveness of consumers towards information and choices shows striking similarities and is on a growing trend.
In both India and Indonesia, media ad expenditures are growing at a double-digit rate, and rapid digitalization is fueling a profound digital transformation for brands. The Consumer Confidence Index (CCI) is notably higher by 110 points. Digital native brands are championing a departure from traditional marketing methods in sectors ranging from FMCG, e-commerce, and apps to banking and utility services.
Capital investments are reaching record highs in private and emerging sectors. Every day brings new opportunities to understand and learn more about culture, consumers, effective communication, and media utilization. It’s a transformative journey in itself.
You have worked in different sectors, from FMCG, to Automobile to Luxury and Sports. How different or similar were the marketing and strategic plans you employed across these sectors? Has this experience helped you in your current role in any way?
It’s a privilege, and in fact, I feel fortunate to work across various sectors. The experience is an extensive learning journey. Honestly, the world of media and advertising is often filled with jargon. However, every brand, spanning FMCG to luxury to sports, shares a singular objective – driving growth. While some prioritize volume, others emphasize value. What unites brands is the pursuit of Lifetime Consumer Value (LCV). This objective stands as the ultimate milestone, whether it’s in strategy, marketing, communication, media campaigns, or go-to-market strategies.
Once the consumer pathway is meticulously mapped and defined, the focus shifts to effectiveness and efficiency, driving return on investment (ROI). While media choices may vary, encompassing different platforms and utilizing AI for creativity and propelling social commerce, the overarching purpose remains constant – drive growth.
Today, brands are rushing to advertise their products and services in metaverse in order to attract and engage their audiences better. What is the future of this trend in your opinion?
The key to attracting consumers to a brand has always been the platform for creative contextuality. The Metaverse stands out as an extraordinary effort in this direction, offering a dedicated space for Lifestyle, Luxury, Beauty, and Experiential brands. Leading the race are global brands such as Nike, Coke, H&M, LV, Gucci, Burberry, Mars, Forever21, and more. What was once considered a trend or a prospect is now an undeniable reality. The imperative for brands is to act swiftly and immerse themselves in the world of Web3 Technology.
Social media is now accessible to everyone thanks to technological advancements and smartphones. In-stream ads are now used by brands to customize their adverts based on audience. Could you tell us how EssenceMediacom has done this?
Programmatic Media and Dynamic Creative & Content Optimization (DCCO) have reached their pinnacle when it comes to audience targeting and media optimization. Innovative ad formats leveraging technology, ranging from face recognition to AR/VR, are already gaining prominence, with brands actively advocating for their adoption.
One target market that is growing at a rapid pace is the gaming industry. What are your insights about how brands should leverage these audiences to reach their intended audience?
Gaming stands out as the singular sector in digital media experiencing unprecedented growth, surging at a rate of 50% or more year on year across global markets. The evolution of gaming has been nothing short of remarkable, transitioning from a single-window format to now embracing experiential formats. It has traversed the spectrum from niche engagement to reaching a wider audience, ultimately becoming an experiential powerhouse. Notably, content is now navigating its path through gaming, as seen with Netflix launching Money Heist in the gaming realm.
While audience targeting predominantly takes a programmatic approach, brands must now pivot towards enhancing in-game experiences, with creativity playing a pivotal role. The era of banner ads and promotional QR codes in gaming advertising has passed. Experiential marketing in gaming has become imperative for brands to stay ahead in the game.
Can you share some examples of a successful campaign you carried out and the strategic planning that went behind it?
My all-time favourite, and it will always be, is the Vodafone India launch of the Zoozoo campaign in 2009. The campaign featured 44 different creatives addressing 45 different products/services of Vodafone. Remarkably, these 44 creatives were launched in 45 days – unveiling one new creative every day, culminating with the simultaneous release of all 45 creatives on the last day! This extensive campaign spanned 36 newspapers, 104 TV stations, 38 radio stations, all digital platforms, 1000+ OOH placements, and even made its mark in sports during IPL 2. Merchandising extended across 3000 Vodafone stores and apparel retailers.
It’s been more than 14 years, and yet Vodafone continues to incorporate Zoozoo in some of its campaigns in India. Such is the enduring recall and stature created by the Zoozoo campaign.
If given a chance to visit either the past, present or future, which one would you choose and why?
As always, the Present. It’s the best time ever.
Havas Maher Saad El Din: Navigating Media’s Shifting Landscape
Explore Maher Saad El Din, Media Director at Havas Media Group, remarkable over 17 years journey in advertising and media. From local agencies to multinational giants, he shares stories of growth and innovation and insights on trends, challenges, and his dedication to local talent. In this exclusive interview, get a closer look at Maher’s views on industry changes, the Saudi Vision 2030, and exciting technologies, like scent marketing and the metaverse.
With 17 years of experience in the advertising and media industry, can you take us through your professional journey and your role as the Media Director at Havas Media?
As you mentioned, 17 years is a significant period, and much has transpired during those years, making it challenging to cover everything. I’ll try to be brief!
I initiated my career in the industry at a local digital agency called Admark. I cannot emphasize enough how crucial that start was for me and how much I appreciate the opportunity that Dr. Nasser Nabulsi gave me. Working with him, I learned a great deal. It was an interesting time, witnessing the inception of the big digital ad boom and the launch of staples such as Google AdWords and Facebook.
My next step marked my first interaction with a multinational agency when I joined Drive Dentsu offices in Riyadh. I consider it my first true venture into the industry. While I hold dear my beginnings at Admark, it was a small company with a very small team. Stepping into the “Big Leagues,” as they say, with Drive Dentsu was an exciting and intimidating move.
From there, I started to discern my preference in the digital equation, leading me to Starcom during its golden age. Although my time there was shorter, I would not be who I am in the industry without that experience.
Then came my initial encounter with a local agency, iCom, one of the largest media companies in Saudi at the time. They had clients such as Saudi Airlines, ALJ’s entire portfolio, HHA’s entire portfolio of motor companies, NCB, Riyad Bank, and SADAFCO, to name a few. Company founder and visionary Nabil Bakr recognized the growth in digital media and recruited me in 2013 to bring the company into the digital age. Despite facing challenges, especially after the 2016 market crash, it remains the best experience I’ve had in the industry and one that I still miss. Even with a smaller team than we started with, we secured significant clients like Jeddah Season, Riyadh Season, PIF’s FII, Tasheel financing, and a few more. Unfortunately, COVID hit us hard, and iCOM never recovered.
I navigated for a couple of years, landing at UM in 2020 and then Mediacom in 2021 before finally settling at Havas Saudi as Media Director. Here, I find my passion reignited and an atmosphere that encourages cooperation in the best possible way.
How has the advertising landscape in KSA changed over the course of your career? What upcoming trends do you see this region adopting in the future?
Having steered through the industry for over 16 years, it’s fascinating to witness its evolution from a newspaper/TV-centric landscape, where the private sector led the way, to a digital/outdoor-driven environment fueled by government and semi-government initiatives.
The most concerning trend currently is the looming cookieless future, with no tangible solutions in sight and regional companies evidently unprepared for the impending transition, barring a selected few.
In terms of exciting developments, the transformation of Out-of-Home (OOH) advertising in Saudi Arabia has been particularly intriguing to observe. Anticipating forthcoming changes and the promise of increased transparency and accurate measurement have me eagerly awaiting what comes next!
What are your insights on the Saudi Vision 2030? How will you align with it and how will the development plan affect the advertising and media landscape in KSA?
As someone born and raised in Saudi Arabia, I’m still awestruck by the remarkable strides the country is making! Since the launch of the Vision, it consistently surpasses expectations, leaving me to ponder each morning on the potential yet to unfold before reaching its 2030 goals—a thought that never fails to bring a smile.
My enduring goal, evident throughout my career, is to actively contribute to the development of local talent in every company I’ve been a part of. It remains my unwavering priority when forming teams. I eagerly anticipate the day when I can confidently pass the baton to a skilled and inspired team of Saudi talents, poised to navigate the next phase in the Kingdom’s industry evolution.
In the past decade, smartphones have revolutionized mobile marketing, particularly social media marketing. How will 5G further enhance mobile marketing?
Smartphones have facilitated the evolution of social media, transitioning from the static desktop era with limited access and the minimal interactions of platforms like Facebook and MySpace to a dynamic mobile platform that remains connected 24/7. This transformation is evident in the regular updates of images and GIFs on platforms such as Twitter and Instagram.
The advent of 5G connectivity has propelled us further, ushering in an era of almost omnipresent video platforms like Snapchat and TikTok. Our lives are now recorded and shared with the world. 5G holds more potential, particularly in the realm of the Internet of Things (IoT), where it becomes the primary means of interacting with our home devices. The next phase of automation is on the horizon, and we’re on the verge of experiencing seamless connectivity.
Imagine a world where even household appliances like the Washing Machine and Dryer interact seamlessly, efficiently folding and putting away laundry. Such innovations could free up valuable time, allowing us to savour life’s moments even more!
As we move into 2024, we will see a significant rise in the adoption of artificial intelligence and generative AI. What are your thoughts on the implementation of AI in marketing? How will it benefit advertisers and media agencies?
As exciting as the prospects of Generative AI are, we need to take a step back and not fall into the trend cycle that our industry often succumbs to. While I agree that it is advancing rapidly and will be immensely beneficial in the long run, it is crucial that we channel our excitement into making GenAI more of a tool to eliminate all the tedious tasks, rather than one to replace human creativity and hard work
Cutting-edge technologies are paving the way for future advertising. Brands are now trying to advertise in the metaverse to stay ahead of the times. How do you think this technology will perform in the years to come?
I don’t foresee a future in the Metaverse at all, to be honest. The barrier of entry is excessively high, requiring an intensive amount of work to create an underwhelming experience that, for consumers, has been more of a gimmick than anything else. However, I firmly believe there’s potential in integrations with well-established virtual environments like Fortnite, Minecraft, and especially Roblox. This approach seems more promising, given the declining engagement of younger generations, Gen Z and Gen Alpha, on traditional social platforms. It’s noteworthy that such integrations are proving to be significantly more popular with brands. The cost of entry on Roblox is notably lower than that of current Metaverse versions, and it comes with the additional advantage of an already established audience.
Scent marketing is one of the most interesting forms of marketing, but brands do not extensively use it. How can brands use this form of marketing to entice audiences?
The sense of smell stands out as one of the most powerful memory triggers the human mind possesses. However, its limitation to a specific area poses a challenge when trying to use it in a broad system outside of enclosed spaces, such as malls and shops. I genuinely believe that a clever execution of this concept can be achieved by non-traditional brands, including automotive, paint, colouring pens, and even event promotions.
What are your predictions in terms of the advertising and media landscape for the year 2024? What are some of the trends and industry analyses you see brands and agencies adopting this year?
The trend I hope to see continue its growth is the strategic omnichannel approach to communication. It goes beyond separating online and offline strategies, embracing a holistic perspective that seamlessly integrates both in a meaningful way. I’m also keenly intrigued to witness the evolution driven by machine learning algorithms, addressing the challenges posed by the loss of 3rd party cookies and traditional conversion tracking. In an era where clients increasingly focus on the bottom line and the lower funnel, the industry faces the task of navigating out of the cookie-shaped challenge created by the overpromises of the past. Let’s hope valuable lessons have been learned this time.
Starcom Secures Ubisoft’s Global Media Account
Starcom, a Publicis media agency, won Ubisoft’s global media planning and buying account after a competitive pitch. WPP’s GroupM was the account incumbent. After Havas Media reversed course and sold the publisher of video games to other stakeholders, Vivendi acquired a majority stake in the company. It was reappointed in late 2015.
Starcom wins Ubisoft’s global media planning and buying account
At the time, the UK contributed £16 million to the £20 million value of the Ubisoft account. It included Australia and 17 European countries. Presumably, GroupM, under the direction of GroupM France, repitched the account.
Starcom’s initial activity is expected to begin in early 2025. The newest installment in Ubisoft’s well-liked Assassin’s Creed game series, “Assassin’s Creed Codename: Red,” is scheduled for release during the company’s 2025 fiscal year, which ends in March 2025. In terms of creative collaboration, Ubisoft has previously worked with DDB Paris on a film for “Far Cry 5” in 2018 as well as the cinema, TV, and digital promotion of “Far Cry 6” in 2021.
Read More: Starcom Middle East Appoints Donnacha Kinsella as Head for Saudi Arabia
Dentsu Announces Extension of Mandate with TTK Healthcare
Dentsu Creative India has announced the extension of its mandate with TTK Healthcare, a well-known healthcare products company. Now, the agency will oversee media and social media responsibilities for Skore, Eva, and MsChief, three of its brands. The agency’s Mumbai office will handle account management.
Dentsu Creative India expands mandate for 3 TTK Healthcare brands
It is important to highlight that Dentsu Creative has long been a dependable partner of TTK Healthcare, beginning with cutting-edge brands of sexual wellness and pleasure, such as Eva, a pioneer in the field of female personal enhancement, and Skore. The agency has proven its excellence and commitment by taking on another brand with ease: MsChief, TTK Healthcare’s most recent entry into the sexual pleasure market, specifically aimed at women. The agency’s ability to produce exceptional results for each brand—demonstrating exceptional capabilities that have earned them an expanded role and responsibilities—was the driving force behind this decision.
End-to-end social media and performance media mandate
Dentsu Creative India will supply the three brands with comprehensive social media and performance media solutions following the mandate. The agency will use its knowledge of digital to produce compelling digital ads. The range of work involves creating aesthetically pleasing digital creatives, managing social media platforms, strategically planning and acquiring media, and carrying out content marketing plans for the brands.
Read More: Dentsu Expands Partnership With AWS To Scale GenAI Capabilities
Here’s what they said
Speaking on the win, Arjun Siva, DGM – Digital Marketing & eCommerce, TTK Healthcare said,
We are delighted to extend our relationship with Dentsu Creative and add MsChief to the set of brands that we partner on with them. We’re confident their proven expertise and consolidated creative and media strengths will help us enhance our digital presence and drive business for our brands.
Sahil Shah, President – Digital Experience, Dentsu Creative India added,
With this consolidation, we have further solidified our position in strengthening TTK Healthcare’s digital efforts. And, for us, the most exciting part is that we are able to see through end-to-end digital – creative, media, and data included – for these ambitious challenger brands. I am extremely confident that we will deliver both brand and business results through the power of integrated digital for TTK Healthcare brands.
Manika Juneja, Managing Partner – Digital Experience, Dentsu Creative commented,
We are ecstatic to strengthen our collaboration with TTK Healthcare! Our journey began with Skore & Eva, and now, with the addition of MsChief, we are truly grateful. Our team is poised to inject integrated digital excellence into these brands, ensuring they not only stand out but thrive. The ongoing partnership promises exciting success, and we look forward to achieving new heights with TTK Healthcare as our valued partners.
Read More: Dentsu Creative India Wins Digital Mandate For 4 Sony Channels
Aunindo Sen Joins As Executive Creative Director At Publicis Groupe ME
Aunindo (Auni) Sen has taken on the role of Executive Creative Director at Publicis Middle East, a division of Publicis Groupe. Alongside Executive Creative Director Tuki Ghiassi, he will share co-leadership of the creative department.
Aunindo Sen appointed as Executive Creative Director, Publicis ME
Sen, a 16-year industry veteran, is returning to Publicis Groupe ME after two years, having served as Senior Creative Director at Leo Burnett ME. He is familiar with Groupe’s emphasis on excellence, and in his new position, he will support the expansion of the agency’s portfolio across verticals and help drive best-in-class work for the agency’s impressive roster of brands.
Aunindo Sen’s accomplishments
He will also contribute to the agency’s goal of transforming talent offerings in the area as part of this. Sen has previously led award-winning regional and global campaigns for multinational brands like Ferrero, Coca-Cola, Mars, Nestle, CPW, Unilever, Dettol, United Nations, and more while working with firms like BBDO, FP7McCann, and JWT throughout the GCC and Asia.
He has won more than 150 regional and international awards. It includes the first Glass Lion for the Middle East and North Africa region at Cannes. It also consists of the Dubai Lynx, MENA Effies, D&AD, and Adfest. Additionally, he recently served on the jury for the Cannes Lions. Furthermore, he was named one of the world’s top copywriters by The Big Won.
Read More: Publicis Worldwide India Wins Creative Mandate for Pramerica Life Insurance
Here’s what they said
Commenting on his appointment, Auni said,
Publicis Middle East is not just an Agency. It’s the name that represents an entire Groupe that has transformed communications globally. As the namesake Agency of the Groupe, we have our work cut out for us. But this is something I can safely say, is the part of the job that I relish the most. With the talent-first focus of Publicis Groupe ME and its Leadership, we are absolutely primed to not only mirror its reputation but to take it to a new level.
Nathalie Gevresse, CEO of Publicis Communications UAE added,
We’re thrilled to welcome Auni back to the Groupe. His return underscores our commitment to attracting and nurturing top talent, setting the stage for an exciting new chapter of growth, creative excellence, and innovation for Publicis Middle East.
Read More: Dentsu Creative India Wins Digital Mandate For 4 Sony Channels
HP’s Global Media Account Retained By PHD
PHD has retained HP’s global media account following a competitive review. The firm will still be in charge of global traditional media planning, buying, and strategy. HP will handle its own digital media buying and has a sizable in-house media team. In 2023, HP invested $194 million in media globally, with digital channels accounting for 69% of the expenditure. Following a three-month evaluation, PHD, an affiliate of Omnicom Media Group, was able to keep the contract. Participating media agencies and specialty stores were split between the holding companies.
PHD’s media responsibilities
It was awarded the entire global HP business in 2017 after the technology company transferred its digital media buying account from Essence. Since 2009, PHD has been in charge of HP’s traditional media buying. HP selected PHD because of its global reach, its capacity for strategy and planning, its emphasis on accountability and transparency, and its adaptable model and competence in collaborating with internal teams. HP has operations in over 170 nations. Antonio Lucio returned to HP in November as chief marketing officer, and he took on this role soon after.
PHD’s most recent victory with HP
After acquiring Grupo Bimbo, Uber, and McCain Foods in the previous year, PHD now has HP as its most recent victory. This puts it at the top of the Campaign’s most recent US Agency Rankings table. In September, Marks took over as CEO of PHD Worldwide, succeeding longstanding CEO Philippa Brown, moving up from the same position in EMEA.
Read More: Wavemaker Wins Media Mandate for $20 million Allianz account
Here’s what they said
As reported by Campaign US,
PHD’s Agency as a Platform model “delivers the talent, tools, and technology that will drive better outcomes for HP, while also enabling the flexibility to wrap around and support our in-house team,” according to Freddie Liversidge, global head of media at HP, in a statement shared with Campaign US.
He continued,
This partnership combines the best aspects of the agency world with the closeness and transparency of an in-house team to advance the business goals of both the brand and the wider business.
Guy Marks, CEO, of PHD Worldwide, said in a statement provided to Campaign US,
Over the course of a relationship that began in 2009, HP and PHD have been partners in navigating disruption. Having concluded an extensive competitive review with the decision to continue that partnership, HP has given us the best possible vote of confidence as the preferred agency for their ongoing transformation. Our collaboration will continue to evolve, as we bring the connected intelligence of the global PHD network, supported by the scale and infrastructure of Omnicom Media Group, to augment HP’s in-house team, delivering future-ready marketing strategies that translate marketplace challenges into business growth.
Read More: GroupM Bags INR 200 Crore Domino’s Pizza Account’s Media Mandate
Savvytree Wins Digital Marketing Mandate for Kisaan Se Kitchen Tak
Savvytree has taken over Kisaan Se Kitchen Tak‘s digital presence. Delhi-based Savvytree, a digital marketing agency, has revealed that it has acquired full digital marketing responsibility for Kisaan Se Kitchen Tak (KSKT Agromart). KSKT is a business that promotes fresh, pure, and naturally grown agricultural products.
Savvytree takes over KSKT’s digital marketing mandate
Savvytree will oversee KSKT Agromart’s digital marketing initiatives as part of the partnership, which will include social media management, content creation, and performance marketing. Through this strategic alliance, KSKT Agromart hopes to reach a wider audience and increase awareness of the value of utilizing natural and pure farming methods.
What does Kisaan Se Kitchen Tak do?
Kisaan Se Kitchen Tak sets itself apart by supporting farmers’ causes, empowering them in agriculture, and encouraging healthy living through their produce. The group actively promotes income growth for farmers while opposing the use of hazardous chemicals in farming. In addition to guaranteeing the best produce for customers, KSKT Agromart promotes environmental health. It uses organic and sustainable farming methods.
Read More: DoubleVerify Expands Media Authentication on Meta
The organization acknowledges the important role that women play in agriculture. Furthermore, it gives them the resources and information they require to become independent members of the farming community. This benefits the economic standing of women and enhances the agricultural environment.
KSKT’s business strategy
Apart from spearheading Kisaan Se Kitchen Tak’s digital marketing initiatives, the company’s business strategy encompasses the establishment, procurement, or leasing of various business divisions. These are tailored to particular products, customer segments, sales channels, and geographical regions. Together with shared functional teams like marketing, finance, and IT, these discrete business units are connected by a single backend supply chain.
Commitment to agriculture
KSKT Agromart is committed to transforming the agricultural landscape. It looks to implement contemporary business practices that align with its core values of empowerment, sustainability, and purity. This is demonstrated by its collaborative and integrated approach.
Read More: VICE Media Group Names Rafael Lavor As Head of Strategy
MiQ names Wassim Mneimneh as the Managing Director for MENAT
Wassim Mneimneh has been named the new Managing Director for the MENAT region by MiQ, an eminent figure in programmatic media. With over 17 years of experience in the digital media space, Mneimneh has gained invaluable knowledge from his work with renowned companies like DoubleVerify, TikTok, Connect Ads, and Nielsen.
Mneimneh appointed as MiQ’s Managing Director in MENAT
His career encompasses a variety of roles. He started as a media planner with MCN. Furthermore, he went on to contribute to the success of global companies like Nielsen, TikTok, and DoubleVerify. Significantly he made a substantial contribution to DoubleVerify’s rise to prominence as the sector’s leading measurement provider. Mneimneh’s responsibilities at MiQ will center on growing the company’s market, creating a strong presence in MENAT, and cultivating enduring bonds with agencies and brands in the area.
Primary Responsibilities
With its programmatic tools and products, MiQ is dedicated to growing its business unit in MENAT. Mneimneh’s primary responsibility at MiQ will be to boost market presence and establish a solid foothold in MENAT. His immediate goals are to coordinate market presence campaigns, establish strategic partnerships, and match MiQ to the particular requirements of the MENAT area.
Here’s what they said
Wassim Mneimneh said,
I am thrilled to embark on this journey with MiQ as their MD for the region. My goal is to not only grow the business, but to establish a solid and impactful presence for MiQ, covering the diverse and dynamic markets of the region. Together, we will navigate new horizons and deliver innovative solutions to our clients.
Lee Puri, Global Chief Growth Officer and Co-founder, MiQ, commented,
We are incredibly excited to have Wassim join us as Managing Director of MENAT. MiQ has been operating in the region for almost three years, and Wassim’s appointment is a testament to our ongoing commitment to shape MiQ as the leading programmatic media partner in MENAT.
Read More: MCN Names Lara Arbid as CEO of Magna Global MENAT, Initiative MENAT
MCN Names Lara Arbid as CEO of Magna Global MENAT, Initiative MENAT
The Middle East Communication Network, or MCN, has named Lara Arbid the CEO of Magna Global MENAT and Initiative MENAT. The announcement follows Bassem Massoud’s departure from the network after 15 valuable years of service.
Lara Arbid appointed as CEO of Magna Global and Initiative MENAT
Arbid became the first female general manager of a Saudi Arabian media agency when she joined MCN Riyadh in 2014. She oversaw Magna KSA for several years before relocating to Dubai and taking on the role of regional managing director at Initiative & Magna.
Read More: Starcom Middle East Appoints Donnacha Kinsella as Head for Saudi Arabia
Other promotions
With Lara’s appointment as CEO, Santadip Roy will take on the role of Regional Managing Director at Magna Global. Having joined MCN in 2018, Roy is a seasoned professional who gained recognition for his contributions to the company in the role of Regional Head for Digital, Data, and Technology and Business Solutions.
Here’s what they said
Ghassan Harfouche, Group CEO of MCN, said
Given her solid background, passion, drive and deep expertise, I’m confident that Lara will thrive in her new role.
Lara Arbid on her appointment as CEO of Initiative and Magna Global MENAT added,
I am passionate about our people, product and partners, and I really look forward to delivering success in 2024 and beyond.
Read More: Publicis Groupe South Asia Appoints Amitesh Rao as CEO, Leo Burnett South Asia
GroupM Announces Ad Innovation Accelerator for Future of Advertising
WPP’s media investment division, GroupM, has announced the first-to-market GroupM Ad Innovation Accelerator, a program designed to redefine audience and advertiser engagement. Working together with a team of highly skilled TV/video programmers and developers, the company is investigating and creating new video ad formats that will be widely used in ad-supported streaming environments. Participating in the initiative are interactive TV developers BrightLine and KERV, as well as streaming providers Disney, Peacock, Roku, Telly, and YouTube.
Ad Innovation Accelerator
The goal of the Ad Innovation Accelerator, led by GroupM’s investment team that leads the industry, is to transform the 30-second ad spot for streaming audiences while improving brand-viewer relationships and producing quantifiable outcomes for participating GroupM advertisers. The working group will plan and develop scalable ad formats that are intended to be widely used in ad-supported streaming environments with a shared vision. The first users of this program will be Mindshare, Wavemaker, and EssenceMediacom clients of GroupM in North America.
First-to-market program
GroupM described the initiative as a “first-to-market program aimed at redefining engagement between advertisers and audiences,” but it was unclear how long use of the formats would remain exclusive to GroupM clients and if/when they would be made available to other advertisers and agencies. This program discusses evolving viewer preferences and suggests a possible way to advertise streaming services more successfully. Additionally, it aims to improve the relationship between viewers and brands, providing advertisers who work with GroupM with quantifiable results.
GroupM’s Ad Innovation Accelerator plans
This Year, Next Year 2023 End-of-Year Forecast from GroupM predicts that CTV advertising in North America will rise 14.9% in 2024, up from 9.4% in 2023. Early in 2024, the newly established working group will meet. GroupM’s Ad Innovation Accelerator partners have mutually decided to:
- Arrange quarterly meetings and recurring innovation sessions to set objectives. Decide on outputs for newly developed advertising models and techniques.
- In Q1 2024, start pilot projects.
- Utilizing test-and-learn methods, co-create advertising formats for agnostic use throughout the media ecosystem.
- Examine the effectiveness and efficiency of media campaigns by applying the most recent standards and procedures.
Members of the working group will work closely with GroupM advertisers. They indicate a desire to test novel formats and procedures. Early in 2024, benchmark testing will be completed in advance of 2024-2025 upfront planning. Throughout 2024, GroupM’s Ad Innovation Accelerator will expand to additional markets. It will create and test novel ad formats for both established and new media.
Read More: GroupM and Google Announce Post Third-Party Cookie Readiness Program
Here’s what they said
Andrew Meaden, Global Head of Investment, GroupM said,
We have to craft a future of our industry where engagement, innovation, and outcomes converge. As we shape the next era of media where advertising works better for people, it is critical we continue to innovate new advertising experiences with our partners around the world to ensure brands are meeting audiences where they are. With more ad-supported options emerging, advertisers must respect audiences’ preferences and use cutting-edge technology to deliver more personalized content.
Mike Fisher, Executive Director, Investment Innovation, GroupM U.S. commented,
Brands advertising in ad-supported streaming environments have an incredible opportunity to engage with attentive consumers, but the rapidly evolving media landscape makes it difficult for advertisers to efficiently and resourcefully launch interactive advertising campaigns. Our clients need a simple way to activate interoperable and attributable campaigns across the ad-supported streaming ecosystem. With key stakeholders at the same table, we will shape impactful outcomes that allow advertisers to execute creative, engaging and effective campaigns.
Matt Sweeney, Chief Investment Officer, GroupM U.S. added,
Building on a legacy of setting industry benchmarks and driving responsible media investment, our program is rooted in shared discovery, proven success and forward-thinking. We’re encouraged by our partners’ collective commitments to impactful advertising and their leadership in advancing new ad formats, specifically for streaming video. Uniting partners with varying objectives to streamline ad development will have a multitude of benefits for our advertisers, ultimately allowing for quick iteration and better interoperability across platforms. That’s a win-win for our industry.
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