Moves

Leadership transition at Edelman EMEA

by Telum Media

11 May 2026 2:21 AM

3 mins read

Edelman has announced a leadership transition across its EMEA business, with Julian Payne (pictured left) appointed CEO, EMEA, and Justin Westcott (pictured centre) appointed CEO, Middle East, in addition to his role as EMEA Chief Operating Officer. Arent Jan (AJ) Hesselink (pictured right), who currently holds the role, will step down after a decade at the firm.

AJ has played a central role in shaping Edelman’s EMEA business, having previously served as General Manager of Amsterdam and EMEA COO before becoming CEO in 2023. He will remain with Edelman until 1st June to support the transition.

Julian Payne will assume the role of CEO, EMEA, alongside his current responsibilities as Global Chair, Crisis & Risk. During the transition period, he will continue in his role as UK CEO. Julian joined Edelman in 2021 and has held senior leadership roles across corporate affairs and crisis advisory, including as Chair of Corporate Affairs for EMEA.

Julian brings more than 30 years of experience across agency and in-house roles, including senior positions at the BBC, Burberry, and Sky, as well as serving as Communications Secretary to The King and Queen in their roles as Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall.

“It’s a privilege to take on the role of CEO for EMEA at such a dynamic moment for our business and our industry. We are operating in a more complex environment than ever before, geopolitically, technologically and socially, and our clients need clear, integrated and forward-looking counsel. Edelman has exceptional talent across the region, and I’m excited to work with our teams to build on our momentum, deepen our capabilities and continue delivering for our clients. It really is a fantastic time to be in communications," Julian said.

Justin Westcott will take on the additional role of CEO, Middle East, while continuing as EMEA COO. He has held several senior roles across the firm, including Global Chair, Technology, UK COO, and previously served in the Middle East, where he led the Dubai office.

Justin commented on his appointment, “The Middle East represents a significant opportunity for Edelman, with ambitious clients and rapidly evolving markets. Having worked in the region earlier in my career, I’ve seen first-hand its pace of growth and potential. I’m looking forward to working with our teams to continue building a business that brings together our full range of capabilities to deliver impact for clients across the region."

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