Magna Global was awarded the Performance Marketing Agency of the Year 2024 title at Campaign Middle East’s Agency of the Year Middle East Awards.
This award took a deep dive into the scope of operation of each agency that made a submission, as well as what has been achieved against the performance marketing objectives.
The winning entry impressed the judges because it was able to “tell a story through the submission while clearly laying out solid case on how the criteria for the award had been met”.
Lara Arbid, CEO, Initiative MENAT and Magna Global MENAT, shared her reflections after the agency’s award win.
How does this award reflect the culmination of your efforts in 2024?
At the start of 2024, we set out to be the ultimate performance-first agency, not just competing with but outshining specialised players. This award validates our relentless drive to embed ourselves into our clients’ businesses, delivering not just results but transformative growth. It’s a celebration of innovation, collaboration, and grit.
As you soak in the win, what top learnings from 2024 will you take into the year ahead?
2024 taught us that in an industry of constant change, standing still is not an option. Our most profound learning is the value of agility – how quickly we adapt defines how far we succeed. We’ve also learned that true performance comes from a fusion of data, creativity, and an unrelenting focus on outcomes. These lessons will guide us as we forge ahead into 2025.
What do you think the industry needs to change or fix on priority in the months ahead?
There is no time for halfway solutions – the industry must face its blind spots head-on, adopt technologies and equip its teams to embrace change and evolve with it. Transparency in performance metrics and attribution remains a glaring issue, without it, we risk eroding trust. Moreover, the gap between data and creativity needs to close; only then can we unleash the full potential of campaigns. Fixing these issues is not just a necessity – it’s the future.
How has the balance between purpose and profits contributed to your successes over the past 12 months?
Purpose has been our compass, and profits have followed naturally. By aligning every strategy with what truly matters to our clients and their audiences, we’ve built campaigns that not only drive numbers but create lasting impact. Purpose inspires authenticity and long-term thinking, and it has been the driving force behind our wins over the past year.
In your opinion, what do consumers really want, and how can agencies help brands meet this need?
Consumers don’t want noise – they want resonance. They crave authenticity, relevance, and value in every interaction with a brand. Agencies hold the key by using data to decode consumer intent, crafting strategies that resonate deeply, and delivering experiences that feel personal, timely, and meaningful.
What are the key facets to securing client wins and sustaining client retention?
Winning a client is an art, but keeping them is a commitment. It starts with understanding their business as if it’s your own, delivering results that exceed expectations, and constantly innovating to stay ahead of the curve. Retention comes down to trust – built brick by brick through transparency, collaboration, and a relentless focus on their success.
What are your agency’s New Year’s resolutions for 2025?
2025 is our next stage of evolution – a year to set new standards. We resolve to push the boundaries of what performance marketing can achieve harnessing innovation to deliver even greater results. We aim to invest in the brightest talent, stay at the forefront of technology, and create partnerships that redefine what success looks like.
