AKA Communications is proud to announce its appointment as the official PR and communications agency for Junk Smash Burgers, the European smash-burger concept, as it prepares to launch its first UAE location later this year.The launch is part of ICON Hospitality’s continued expansion in the region, following the rollout of international concepts including EL&N London and Loris Restaurant.

Commenting on the partnership, Antony Rettie, co-founder of AKA Communications, said: “We’re excited to partner with Junk Smash Burgers for their UAE launch. Their bold, no-nonsense approach to comfort food aligns perfectly with our hospitality expertise, and we look forward to building a compelling launch narrative that will position Junk as the go-to burger stop in the city.”

(In the picture: AKA Communications Co-founders, Katrina Kutchinsky and Antony Rettie)

Lisa Maguire has been welcomed at Gilead Sciences as Interim Director of Public Affairs ANZ. She was previously at genetic sequencing company, Illumina, most recently as Director Communications, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa (AMEA).

Lisa holds senior in-house experience across the pharmaceutical, FMCG, government and emergency services sectors. 

Johnny Sollitt-Davis has joined ASX listed global packaging design and manufacturing company, Orora, as Corporate Affairs Manager in Melbourne. He stepped into the new role after a stint as Global Corporate Affairs Manager at Dyno Nobel.

Backed by over two decades' experience in UK and Australia, Johnny has held senior roles at various agencies as well as in-house teams.