Edelman reshuffles EMEA leadership

Global communications firm Edelman has announced a leadership transition across its EMEA business, appointing Julian Payne as CEO, EMEA, and Justin Westcott as CEO, Middle East, alongside his existing role as EMEA Chief Operating Officer. The changes come as the communications agency continues to expand its regional capabilities and strengthen its corporate and brand offering.

Arent Jan Hesselink will step down from his role after 10 years at the firm and will remain with Edelman until June 1 to support the transition. During his tenure, Arent Jan Hesselink helped shape the agency’s EMEA operations, previously serving as General Manager of Amsterdam and EMEA COO before becoming CEO in 2023.

Leadership transition in EMEA

Under Arent Jan Hesselink’s leadership, Edelman’s EMEA business expanded its client portfolio and adjusted its operating model to address increasingly complex global communications challenges.

Ed Williams, President, International, Edelman: “AJ has made an outstanding contribution to Edelman over the past ten years. He has helped build a more integrated, resilient and high-performing EMEA business, and has led the region through a period of extraordinary complexity with clarity and determination. Just as importantly, he has built a strong leadership team and a culture that reflects the very best of our firm. We are grateful for everything he has done and wish him every success in what comes next.”

Julian Payne will continue in his role as Global Chair, Crisis & Risk while assuming responsibility for the EMEA business. During the transition period, he will also remain UK CEO.

Payne takes expanded regional role

Julian Payne joined Edelman in 2021 and has held senior leadership roles across corporate affairs and crisis advisory, including Chair of Corporate Affairs for EMEA. His experience spans agency and in-house communications positions at organisations including the BBC, Burberry and Sky, as well as serving as Communications Secretary to The King and Queen in their former roles as Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall.

Ed Williams: “Julian is a highly experienced leader with deep expertise in reputation, corporate affairs and leadership communications. Since taking on leadership of our UK business, he has been focused on driving growth through diversification of our capabilities into sectors like sport and luxury, while deepening expertise and integration across the market. He has also had a significant impact on our broader business, strengthening our corporate offering and advising clients through complex, high-stakes situations. He brings sound judgement, strong client instincts and a clear sense of where our industry is heading. I am confident he will build on the strong foundation in EMEA and lead the region into its next phase.”

Justin Westcott will add the CEO, Middle East position to his responsibilities while continuing as EMEA COO. He previously held senior roles including Global Chair, Technology, UK COO and leadership positions in Dubai.

Middle East growth focus

The expanded remit reflects Edelman’s focus on the Middle East as a growth market and Justin Westcott’s experience leading operational and organisational transformation across the region.

Ed Williams: “Justin’s appointment reflects both the importance of the Middle East to Edelman’s future growth and the strength of his leadership across the region. He combines deep regional knowledge with operational and technological expertise and has a proven ability to drive transformation and build high-performing teams. He will play a critical role in accelerating our growth in this important area of the world.”

Julian Payne: “It’s a privilege to take on the role of CEO for EMEA at such a dynamic moment for our business and our industry. We are operating in a more complex environment than ever before, geopolitically, technologically and socially, and our clients need clear, integrated and forward-looking counsel. Edelman has exceptional talent across the region, and I’m excited to work with our teams to build on our momentum, deepen our capabilities and continue delivering for our clients. It really is a fantastic time to be in communications.”

Expanded responsibilities for Westcott

Justin Westcott highlighted the growth opportunities across the Middle East market and the agency’s plans to strengthen its regional offering.

Justin Westcott: “The Middle East represents a significant opportunity for Edelman, with ambitious clients and rapidly evolving markets. Having worked in the region earlier in my career, I’ve seen first-hand its pace of growth and potential. I’m looking forward to working with our teams to continue building a business that brings together our full range of capabilities to deliver impact for clients across the region.”

The appointments form part of Edelman’s broader leadership strategy as the agency continues to expand its integrated communications offering across EMEA and the Middle East.

www.edelman.com

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