Cheil Worldwide announces raft of executive changes to its regional team

Wael Abdulhadi, who joins from Wunderman, has been appointed Digital Director, whilst Jinny Ki, previously based at Cheil HQ in South Korea also joined the Middle East operation as Planning Director.

These recent senior appointments illustrate Cheil's commitment to the Middle East and North Africa and its objective to grow the advertising agency organically by working with local brands, whilst also building a regional presence for its international clients.

Abdulhadi will continue to build upon Cheil's integrated offer by developing its digital innovations that are being consistently added to the agency's media mix. He will also concentrate on combining its strategic consultancy in digital planning with its strength in production.

As Planning Director, Ki will work closely with Abdulhadi, joining the team with 16 years of experience in digital and strategic planning in global markets. She will manage the growth of the regional planning department by promoting best practice and innovation across the regional network.

Chief Operating Officer for Cheil Worldwide, Azmi Yafi, said, "The mix of experience that Wael and Jinny have highlights our commitment to develop local insights with a South Korean way of working, known as Tuhon, which has seen Cheil rise up to become one of the largest networks in the world. And whilst responsible for developing their own departments, Cheil operates one profit-centre and we will look forward to the results that their integration and experience will deliver for our clients."

These executive changes follow Andrej Asenijevic's appointment as Head Creative Director earlier this year to further bolster Cheil's offerings in the region.

Abdulhadi and Ki will work across the regional network that includes offices in the UAE, KSA and Jordan and its client portfolio that includes Samsung, DEWA, DED, Hankook Tires, Emirates Islamic Bank and Dunkin Donuts.