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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Action Global Communications welcomes two former F&B clients to roster

Independent full-service communications firm, Action Global Communications, has been reappointed PR agency by its former clients, Joe & the Juice and Sarood Hospitality.

Joe & the Juice launched in the UAE three years ago. The brand currently has 27 outlets across the Emirates and plans to expand and increase market awareness by opening up to 50 more outlets, with support from Action.

Dubai-owned Sarood Hospitality operates a portfolio of five concept restaurants: The Bolt Hole, The Duck Hook, Hillhouse Brasserie, The Noodle House, and Trattoria. The new appointment sees the agency look after Sarood Hospitality’s corporate communications, as well as helping drive growth and awareness for The Noodle House and Trattoria.

“Our experience and sector expertise evidently positions us as an ideal partner for F&B brands wanting to heighten their integrated communications activities across the UAE,” said Camilla d’Abo, Managing Director UAE at Action Global Communications. “We know F&B is an incredibly competitive sector, yet we understand these brands intimately and believe we have the ingredients to create culinary magic for Joe & the Juice and Sarood Hospitality over the coming years.”

Action UAE hospitality client portfolio includes Waldorf Astoria properties in DIFC and on Palm Jumeirah, IHG Hotels & Resorts, Al Ghurair Investments - including its Flayva food hall and other F&B venues, Embassy Suites by Hilton Business Bay, and Hilton Garden Inn. The agency also oversees communications for the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and its divisions.

Marriott
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Marriott promotes marcomms assistant director in Penang

Ketty Ooi has been elevated to Assistant Director of Marketing Communications at Penang Marriott Hotel and Marriott Executive Apartments Penang. Based in Malaysia, she leads communications and marketing, overseeing public relations, digital, social media, F&B marketing, and advertising initiatives.

Ketty first joined the team as a Manager, after spending three years with Courtyard by Marriott Penang.

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Lindsay Bennett is named Global Communications and Content Lead

Lindsay Bennett has been welcomed at New Zealand research platform, Ideally, as its Global Communications and Content Lead. She has finished her time at Clemenger BBDO as Head of Brand and Communications. 

Lindsay was previously based in New York as VP, Communications at GALE and Global Head of Marketing at DDB. Prior to this, she was at DDB Group Australia, following her time in journalism at AdNews Australia. 

“I’m excited to join Ideally at such a pivotal moment,” said Lindsay.

“This is the type of company that is defining what’s next for marketing, combining technology, creativity and insights to help brands grow smarter. I can’t wait to share that story on the global stage.”