Strategic communications and public affairs firm, Crestview, has expanded its Gulf presence by appointing regional leadership in the United Arab Emirates. Under the leadership of Alexander M. Wegner (pictured), who has been appointed Vice President, Head of Middle East, Crestview’s team in the Gulf focuses on three core areas: strategic and executive positioning, stakeholder engagement and market entry and access.
Alexander has 17 years’ experience across the Middle East and Africa. He has managed, built, and scaled new practices, led international teams and worked with major corporate, government and philanthropic organisations in Bahrain, Nigeria, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE. His clients have included Ministers, ultra-high-net-worth individuals, CEOs, sovereign wealth funds and Fortune 500 firms.
Founding Partner, Mark Spiro, said: “As a partner-owned firm that has grown organically, we have the freedom and agility to act on the opportunities we see, wherever they may be. Today, the Gulf states are leading the way - from AI to the energy transition - and I’m convinced our experience, people and networks will create value.”
“I’m delighted to lead Crestview’s fast-growing business in the Middle East,” Alexander added. “Crestview has a hard-earned reputation for consistent excellence and impact, and the caliber and commitment of colleagues throughout the firm is nothing short of exceptional. I can’t think of a more capable group of people to write the next chapter of Crestview’s global growth story with, and I’m excited about all we’re going to achieve with and for our clients here in the Gulf.”
In the Gulf, Crestview is already advising energy clients in Abu Dhabi and has done work in the UAE’s telecommunications industry.
Julian Ovens, a Partner and former resource executive and Chief of Staff to Canada’s Foreign and International Trade Ministers, stated: “Gulf markets have always been key - during my time in government, resources and investment banking. With our world changing more profoundly and rapidly than anyone had predicted just a few years ago, the Gulf states’ financial firepower and diplomatic leverage can make an outsized difference. In Alexander, we have a trusted hand who knows the region inside out and can help clients in, or interested in, these markets navigate them successfully. We’re glad to have him join our senior team.”
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