Ben Morton to lead Edelman's Middle East and Africa business

Based in the company's Abu Dhabi hub office, Ben will manage Edelman's client relationships throughout the region and will spearhead the growth of new offices.

Appointed on the first anniversary of the Middle East operations , Edelman has established itself as one of the leading communications consultancies in the United Arab Emirates, advising a portfolio of blue-chip local and international clients, including Mubadala Development Company, Masdar, Abu Dhabi's renewable energy initiative, FIFA Club World Cup UAE, and the first ever Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Formula 1 Grand Prix. During that time the company has grown from two to 14 employees and works closely with the Edelman network and affiliate partners to provide its clients with a full-service offering.

David Brain, President & CEO, EMEA, said:

"In a very short time, we have established a presence in Abu Dhabi under the interim stewardship of Iain Twine, and have enjoyed some terrific growth thanks to the enthusiastic commitment of our start-up clients and staff, despite a backdrop of regional and global economic uncertainty. Ben is a senior communications adviser, having worked for over ten years at board level for Heathrow Airport and Commonwealth Development Corporation (CDC)."

"He has extensive emerging markets' experience, particularly in Africa, has previously worked for some great consultancies and is very comfortable advising both public and private sector organisations. He is a highly experienced operator and will drive our ambitious plans for growth in the region," he added.

Ben Morton added, "Edelman's Middle East business has performed very well and has achieved a lot in a short space of time. I am looking forward to being able to assist in consolidating and growing our client base across the United Arab Emirates, while developing our business in the wider Middle East and Africa region. It is an exciting time for these markets as they continue to play an increasingly important part in the global economy."