Hanover Communications, an international strategic communications consultancy, has appointed Samantha Gregson Donnelly (pictured) as Managing Director for the Middle East. Samantha succeeds Jonty Summers and will lead Hanover’s continued growth across the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
Samantha has been with Hanover for six years and currently leads the firm’s Corporate Practice in the region. She brings more than 19 years’ experience across media and strategic communications, advising CEOs and senior leadership teams across the GCC on corporate reputation, crisis management, communications strategy and executive positioning.
Prior to joining Hanover, Samantha spent eight years at Sky News in London as a Television Producer and Chief Planning Producer for the channel’s World News programme. During this time, she worked on international news coverage and conducted interviews with senior political and business leaders worldwide.
Commenting on the appointment, Charles Lewington, Interim Managing Partner, Hanover Communications, said: “Samantha has played a central role in the growth and success of Hanover Middle East over the past six years and is exceptionally well placed to lead the business into its next phase. She brings strong client relationships, strategic counsel experience and deep regional understanding, alongside a clear commitment to our clients, people and long-term growth across the Middle East.”
“It is a privilege to take on the role of Managing Director for Hanover Middle East at an important moment for both the business and the wider region. Over the past six years, we have built a strong team and trusted client relationships across the UAE and Saudi Arabia, advising organisations on some of the region’s most high-profile and complex communications challenges," said Samantha.
“I would also like to thank Jonty for his stellar leadership, mentorship and continued support over the past six years, and I look forward to building on the strong foundations already established across the region.”