Starcom MediaVest Group MENA celebrates seven years and 2007 successes

The event provided the Dubai office of SMG MENA an opportunity to honour both clients and staff that had been with the agency for more than seven years.

Procter & Gamble, Philip Morris, Kraft, General Motors and Diageo were recognised for their enduring confidence in the agency, as demonstrated by their relationships with SMG MENA that extend back further than the seven years the media group has operated as a separate entity.

"Our business-focused approach and our accountability in maximising client return on investment ensure that we add value to client businesses," said Philip Jabbour, SMG MENA Group Director, Marketing and Business Development. "By developing an understanding, not only of the brand, but of the client's strategic challenges as well, we are better positioned to create captivating connections that encourage customers to respond positively to our clients' communications."

He added that SMG MENA's corporate culture also promotes developing long-term relationships with its employees, by providing training, challenging work assignments and opportunities for advancement. "The success of any business is determined by the number of employees who feel a sense of ownership toward their company and their job. To nurture such a culture, we must provide the right environment and support. Our recent accomplishments as an agency are a sign that we are on the right track."

During the first six months of 2007, SMG MENA received both regional and global honours. Five of its clients were recognised for the effectiveness of their communication campaigns at the GMR Effectiveness in Marketing Awards (GEMAS) held in February. Sports marketing division Relay was a finalist "Cream of Venice Selection" at the inaugural Venice Festival of Media,. Most recently, SMG MENA was the only media company from the region to be short-listed for a Cannes Lion media award this year.

As well, SMG MENA retained telecom giant Saudi Telecommunications Co. and added to its impressive list of blue-chip companies with GlaxoSmithKline and Welcare World Health Systems. The agency also added the media buying assignment to its existing media planning work for Coca-Cola Egypt.

At the gala event, the recognition of clients was followed by a ceremony honouring 11 employees who have been with the agency since before it launched, including some who joined as far back as 1991.

SMG MENA opened its doors in 2001 with fewer than 60 employees. Today the agency operates a regional network of 11 offices staffed by more than 213 people.