Anoir Adra takes on new leadership role at agency

Influence Matters has named Linette Ling as Director, China, based in Beijing. In this role, she leads the agency's Mainland China clients, overseeing client strategy, team development, and the continued growth of the team's communications practice for international B2B technology companies.

Linette brings experience in technology communications, having advised leading organisations across semiconductor, enterprise software, cloud infrastructure, cybersecurity and emerging technology sectors. Prior to joining the team, Linette held senior roles at FINN Partners, Golin, Weber Shandwick and Archetype. In her role at Influence Matters, she will play a key role in delivering strategic communications programmes that are aimed at helping global companies build credibility, influence and business momentum in the market.

Simon Vericel, Managing Director of Influence Matters, said that the appointment reflects the company’s next stage of growth in the market. "The way companies build influence has fundamentally changed. In an AI-driven world, success is no longer determined by how much coverage a company generates, but by whether it is trusted and referenced by the people, communities and platforms that shape business decisions. Linette shares our vision for a more focused, measurable and effective approach to communications."

"Technology buyers are increasingly relying on digital communities, expert networks and AI-powered discovery platforms to evaluate solutions," said Linette. "This requires a modern approach to communications. Our role is to help clients become visible, trusted and influential within the ecosystems that drive business outcomes,” she added, excited to lead the consultancy’s growth in the market.

Sarah Whyte has returned to the government sector and has joined the Office of Dr Sophie Scamps MP, Independent Member for Mackellar, as Deputy Chief of Staff. Sarah has wrapped up her time as Head of Strategic Communications at the Australian India Institute. Prior to this, she worked for the Independent for Warringah, Zali Steggall OAM MP as media advisor after working in the field of journalism at the ABC and Fairfax Media.

Stuart Wallace has joined the High Speed Rail Authority as Executive General Manager of Corporate Affairs. He has wrapped up four years at Sydney Water, most recently as General Manager, Customer and Stakeholder Engagement. Prior to this, Stuart worked in comms as Chief of Staff and a senior media advisor for a number of politicians.