PR News
Former UK Foreign Secretary takes on global advisory role at Penta

Former UK Foreign Secretary takes on global advisory role at Penta

Penta has appointed former UK Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond to its Global Advisory Board, effective 1st August 2025. In this role, he provides strategic guidance to the firm’s clients and supports Penta’s leadership team as the company pursues its growth objectives.

Philip served as the Conservative Member of Parliament for Runnymede and Weybridge from 1997 to 2019. During his time in government, he held senior Cabinet positions, including Secretary of State for Transport, Secretary of State for Defence, Foreign Secretary, and Chancellor of the Exchequer.

"We are delighted to welcome Philip Hammond to our Global Advisory Board," said Matt McDonald, CEO of Penta. "This appointment is a true validation of Penta’s proposition: to serve the world’s most consequential organisations as best-in-class strategic advisors, driven by proprietary data and insights. During his outstanding career to date, Philip has deftly navigated increasing global complexity and geopolitical turbulence at the highest level. His evidence-led approach will be invaluable as we seek to challenge conventional thinking and practice.”

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Agent99 embraces AI creativity with new client win

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Agent99
Industry update

Agent99 embraces AI creativity with new client win

PR agency, Agent99, has announced its first client in the AI creative space, joining as an in-kind sponsor of the OMNI International AI Film Festival.

Agent99 will lead a campaign to elevate OMNI 1.0, the festival's second awards event. The agency will be driving earned media, thought leadership and industry engagement, building on OMNI's mission to legitimise AI filmmaking as an art form, while keeping ethical innovation central to the discussion.

Founder and Director of Agent99, Sharon Zeev Poole, said that storytelling is changing, and OMNI sits at the centre of that conversation.

"When the opportunity to work with them came our way, we came on board as their in-kind PR sponsor because we really believe OMNI is not only pushing creative boundaries but also shaping the dialogue around the role of AI in the arts. As early adopters ourselves, we can't wait to champion this story and take it to Australian and international audiences.

"OMNI is an extraordinary example of how technology is expanding creative possibilities. It’s certainly not replacing human ingenuity - but rather giving us the time and space to allow it to flourish. Partnering with them is not only an exciting new chapter for Agent99 but also an opportunity to support the voices leading this cultural shift."

Withings
Industry update

Withings partners with Sling & Stone in Australia

French consumer electronics company, Withings, has appointed Sling & Stone as its agency of record in Australia, following a competitive pitch.

The agency's remit includes strategic storytelling, media and influencer relations, and events and partnerships, to help raise Withings' brand awareness and build credibility in the Australian market.

Sling & Stone's CEO, James Hutchinson, said: "Withings is a natural fit for the Sling & Stone family because it represents the intersection of everything we're passionate about - consumer technology, health, and brands with a powerful purpose.

"More than just a healthtech brand, Withings is a game changer, successfully marrying cutting-edge technology with beautiful, everyday design. We relish the opportunity to partner with them and share their story to help improve the health and fitness of Australians everywhere."

Nargisse
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Nargisse Benmiroch appointed comms head at luxury real estate

Nargisse Benmiroch has relocated to Dubai from the Netherlands, joining La Riviera Real Estate as Head of Communications. At the French-speaking luxury real estate, she spearheads the company’s rebranding journey and shapes its overall communications efforts.
 
Prior to joining, she brings PR, comms and social media experience from Foot Locker and JD Sports Fashion.

"I’m truly excited to be leading communications at La Riviera Real Estate during such a pivotal time in the company’s journey. With our rebranding and renewed vision, my focus is on strengthening our presence in Dubai’s luxury real estate market while building authentic connections with our clients and partners," said Nargisse on her appointment.