fbpx
FeaturedMediaPR

Ahmad Itani announced as new PRCA MENA chairman and ICCO Middle East president

Ahmad Itani, founder and CEO of Cicero & Bernay Public Relations (C&B) has become chairman of the Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA) MENA. He succeeds Omar Qirem, chief executive officer of Edelman Middle East, who served a two-year term as chairman and now becomes vice-chairman.

Since its launch in 2016, PRCA MENA has emerged as the leading PR association for the region, with 20 MENA countries represented on its board of directors. In the last 12 months under Omar’s leadership as Chairman, PRCA MENA provided free practical resources, training sessions and memberships for members directly impacted by Covid-19. PRCA MENA also collaborated with international partners more than ever, creating new opportunities for members to network and learn from their global peers, highlighted by initiatives led by the Global Covid-19 Communications Taskforce.

Ahmad Itani, founder and CEO of Cicero & Bernay Public Relations said: “I am honoured to take on the role of PRCA MENA Chairman. I would like to thank Omar for his strong leadership especially during a period of such adversity. The power of communications has come to the fore in these past 12 months proving its value to society and business across the Middle East and North Africa. Although the covid-era is still upon us, there’s real confidence in our industry in the region. I look forward to continue to support our members and further strengthen PRCA MENA’s position as truly representative of the entire MENA region.”

Omar Qirem said:

“I’m really proud of what PRCA MENA has been able to achieve for its members and the wider industry across the Middle East and North Africa. No doubt it’s been an extraordinarily tough time recently, but I’ve seen our industry show immense resilience, innovation and creativity. The importance of community and collaboration has never been more important, and Hayley and the team at PRCA MENA have led brilliantly in this respect. I look forward to supporting Ahmad as vice-chair in what shapes to be an important period.”

PRCA MENA director general Francis Ingham MPRCA commented:

“Omar has been simply exceptional as PRCA MENA’s chairman. The Association has grown to be truly representative of the whole region under Omar’s leadership. I look forward to working with Ahmad in this critical year ahead of recovery and expansion.”