Panel Discussion

Nassib is CEO of Wunderman Thompson and WPP for MENA. Overseeing a team of multi-disciplined experts across ten markets, from creatives, data scientists and technologists to team leads, Nassib works to inspire growth across all clients and partners.

Work for Wunderman Thompson and WPP clients has been regularly recognised at top-tier award shows for their strategic innovation and ground-breaking best practices that deliver measurable growth for clients and their brands. Skilled in all aspects of cross-functional marketing and communications for fully integrated solutions, Nassib also believes in the importance of giving back to the industry. He has been serving on the Board of the UAE Chapter of the IAA since 2006, as well as the mentorship programme of the Dubai Chamber.

A veteran in the world of media and marketing, Houda has made a lasting impact on the industry throughout her illustrious 22-year career. Her journey in this field began in 2002 in Dubai, where she honed her skills in communications and investment planning across a diverse range of categories, including leading FMCG giants, prestigious luxury and fashion brands, and various other sectors.

Throughout her career, Houda’s leadership at Havas Media has been instrumental in driving innovation and progress in the industry, contributing significantly to Havas Media becoming one of the top 5 media leaders in the Middle East.

Beyond her role at Havas Media, Houda actively contributes to the industry’s development as a board member of IAB MENA. In recognition of her exceptional leadership, Houda was named one of the top 30 leaders in the Middle East’s advertising industry by Communicate Magazine, and selected in Communicate ME’s Power List for 2023, further solidifying her reputation as a respected figure in the field.

Bassel Kakish is the CEO of Publicis Groupe, Middle East and Turkey, managing over 3,600 professionals across various disciplines and markets spanning technology, marketing, creative, media and PR. With 21+ years at Publicis Groupe, Bassel has held various strategic roles – acting as Chief Financial Officer, Chief Integration Officer, and co-Managing Director of Publicis Sapient for the region. As CEO, he is focused on strengthening and expanding the Groupe’s offering, driven by the Power of One, to help clients succeed through disruptive creative strategy, analytics and insights.

Dani holds the role of Chairman and CEO of BBDO Europe, Middle East and Africa, as well as being Chairman of Impact BBDO Group of Companies. Under Dani’s leadership, Impact BBDO has consistently been the top-ranked regional network at Cannes Lions, Loeries, Mad Stars, London International Awards, Dubai Lynx, Andy Awards and the Clios. Dani has repeatedly featured in the Arabian Business Magazine list of ‘The World’s 100 Most Influential Arabs’, most recently in 2023, as well as being named Dubai Lynx Advertising Person of the Year 2018 and Arab Ad’s Man of the Year 2017.

A communications and media professional who has worked across the Gulf and MENA region for over two decades, Alex Malouf’s expertise lies in helping organisations understand how they can best build and develop their reputations. Alex has worked across a range of industries, including energy, engineering, FMCG and manufacturing. His interests include how sustainability and technology can come together to create meaningful impact for industries and communities alike. A UK national, Alex is currently based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where he is Executive Director for Communications and Public Relations at the Kingdom’s first electric vehicle brand.