Government relations, business advisory and strategic communications firm, Basilinna, has elevated Essam Aljifri to the role of Senior Vice President. Based between Riyadh and London, he oversees Middle East strategic communications and policy advisory across government, business, and NGOs, while continuing his role as issues and crisis management specialist at the firm.
Essam joined Basilinna in 2024, following more than seven years at Edelman, where he last held the role of Vice President, Issues and Crisis Management, Middle East for Edelman Global Advisory. He also brings comms experience from Burson.
Ambassador Yassir Elnaggar, Chairman of Middle East at the firm, said, “Essam exemplifies Basilinna’s insight-backed approach at the intersection of policy and communications. His leadership strengthens how we help clients navigate complexity and deliver outcomes that matter.”
“I’m honoured to step into this role and build on Basilinna’s mission - bringing policy fluency and strategic communications to support leaders driving transformation across the region,” commented Essam on his new appointment.