BPG strengthens team with new hires and promotion

Stagwell has appointed Lena Petersen as Chief Brand and Communications Officer. In this role, she leads the network’s global brand and communications team, overseeing internal and external communications, brand identity and executive visibility.

Lena brings over 30 years of experience across marketing, media, and storytelling. She most recently held senior leadership roles at Sugar23 and MediaLink, a UTA company, where she advised brands and executives on growth strategy, brand transformation and cultural relevance.

Lena succeeds Beth Sidhu, who is transitioning to the role of CEO at SPORT BEACH.

Speaking on her appointment, Lena said, “I’m excited to join Stagwell as Chief Brand and Communications Officer. Stagwell’s commitment to innovation and its powerhouse network of agencies offers a unique opportunity to elevate the brand, amplify our story, and connect with audiences in meaningful ways. I’m eager to drive bold, forward-thinking communications that showcase the creative impact of the entire global network and the transformative work we do in partnership with our clients.” 

Savitha Ravindran (Savi) has joined Tech Onshore MEP Prefabricators (TOM) as Strategic Planning Manager, based in Singapore. In this newly created role, she oversees PR and media relations, alongside broader corporate communications, including stakeholder management, content, and brand positioning across key markets in Asia, the UK, and the US.

Savi joins TOM, bringing cross-sector communications experience from financial services and agency consulting to her current focus in the built environment industry. She was previously Global PR Manager at EBC Financial Group and earlier worked as Account Executive at Edelman Malaysia. 

 South African Tourism has appointed tourism marketing agency Gate 7 as its in-market public relations and communications representative for Australia and New Zealand.

Gate 7 will deliver an integrated program across earned and owned channels, bringing PR, social media and broader communications together.

The appointment will see the agency work alongside the local South African Tourism team to drive awareness, consideration and visitation to South Africa from the Australian and New Zealand markets. A key focus will be highlighting ease of access, with convenient direct flights from Sydney and Perth, as well as one-stop connections from across Australia and New Zealand.

Jo Palmer, Founder & Managing Director of Gate 7, said: "South Africa is on the bucket list for so many across Australia and New Zealand, and we are proud to be working with the team at South African Tourism to represent such a dynamic and rewarding destination.

"Whether it’s spotting wildlife on safari, exploring neighbourhoods in Cape Town or connecting with local culture, South Africa offers depth, diversity, and exceptional value. We look forward to bringing these stories to life in a way that feels inspiring, relevant and within reach for travellers across the region."