Kekst CNC has appointed Minako Otani as Co-Head Japan. In this new role, she leads the firm's Tokyo office alongside Jochen Legewie, Partner and Co-Head Japan, Chairperson Asia.

Minako joined Kekst CNC in 2010. This latest appointment comes as the firm expands its Japan leadership to meet growing client demands.

The agency noted that Japan is entering a new era of corporate transformation, where the market has emerged as one of the world’s most active takeover regions, signifying a growing confidence in its corporate and capital markets.

Jochen remarked, "Since moving to a larger office in 2024, our team has continuously grown in scale and capability. As Japan’s business landscape evolves, clients are increasingly seeking advisors who can bridge local and global perspectives, connecting capital markets, corporate strategy, and reputation. With Minako joining as Co-Head, we’re strengthening our leadership bench for the next phase of growth."

(Pictured, from left to right: Jochen Legewie and Minako Otani)

PRecious Communications has appointed Joanna Ong as its first Regional Chief Operations Officer, while Sunita Kanapathy's role has been expanded to oversee PRecious’ Malaysia business in addition to her current remit as Regional Vice President of Corporate and Brands.

Bringing over 25 years of experience, Joanna is responsible for driving operational excellence, client service delivery and people development, while leading teams across the Asia Pacific region. In this role, she reports directly to Lars Voedisch, Group CEO of PRecious Communications, and partners with him to achieve strategic business priorities and sustainable growth.

“I am incredibly excited to join PRecious as it embarks on its next stage of growth in the region. I look forward to working with the talented team across markets to further build on PRecious’ success to achieve its strategic vision in delivering the best business outcomes for clients and growth opportunities for the team,” said Joanna.

Sunita’s expanded remit comes six months after she joined the agency, reflecting her contributions to regional growth and client strategy. Reporting to Joanna, she continues to shape the agency's regional vision while leading efforts to strengthen client relationships, develop talent, and drive business expansion to reinforce PRecious’ offering in the Malaysian market.

“I’m honoured to be trusted with this expanded portfolio to help steer PRecious’ next phase of growth in Malaysia while continuing to advance our regional agenda,” said Sunita. “I’m looking forward to applying the regional experience I’ve gained to deepen our local impact. Malaysia is a key market with tremendous potential, and my focus will be on ensuring we continue delivering meaningful, results-driven work for our clients while building a strong, connected team.”

Commenting on the appointments, Lars shared, “PRecious is entering an exciting new phase of growth in the region after a first ‘wild 13’ years, and we’re accelerating this momentum by strengthening our regional leadership team. Joanna brings a proven track record of transforming organisations and building high-performing teams while Sunita has demonstrated exceptional leadership, driving impact across our Corporate and Brands businesses. Their strategic vision and deep regional experience will be invaluable as we continue to scale and solidify PRecious’ position as a leading communications powerhouse in Asia - and one day beyond.”

(Pictured from left to right: Joanna Ong, Lars Voedisch and Sunita Kanapathy)

Nino Lalic has stepped up in the renewable energy sector at Iberdrola Australia as Executive Manager Corporate Affairs. He has been with the team since 2022 as General Manager Public Affairs. 

Nino previously held senior comms roles at government advisory groups and has also worked as a senior policy and media adviser for a number of politicians.