The Middle East Public Relations Association (MEPRA) has announced a new leadership team from throughout the region. Qatar’s Justin Kerr Stevens has been appointed Chair, succeeding Kate Midttun, alongside Neda Shelton and Monther Tayeb, who have been appointed as Vice Chairs.
In addition, two appointments have been made to the MEPRA Executive Board, with Rishi Talwalker, Head of Communications at Havas Red, and Ghaleb Zeidan, Regional Managing Director UAE, Culture, L&D, and Partnership at Weber Shandwick, joining the board.
With nearly three decades of experience spanning government, consultancy and agency leadership, Justin brings a cross-market perspective shaped by senior advisory roles across Australia, the United Kingdom, the Middle East and Central Asia. He is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Northbourne Advisory, a Doha-based strategic advisory firm, and previously served as CEO of BLJ Worldwide, and Partner and Middle East General Manager at Portland Communications.
Commenting on his appointment, Justin said, “As MEPRA marks 25 years, it is worth recognising the role professional bodies play in shaping not just an industry, but the people within it. Throughout my own career, organisations like MEPRA have provided perspective, standards and a sense of belonging, from the earliest career stages through to senior leadership."
"I am honoured to take on the leadership of MEPRA, and looking ahead, my priority is that MEPRA continues to be a place where experience is respected, new voices are encouraged, and practitioners at every point in their career feel connected to the profession. Remaining relevant to senior leaders while being meaningful to those just starting out is our core responsibility, and central to MEPRA’s purpose as it enters its next chapter.”
Outgoing Chair, Kate Midttun, said, “It has been a privilege to serve MEPRA during a period of change for the industry. The incoming leadership team brings a strong mix of experience, energy and perspective. I am confident they will continue to strengthen MEPRA’s role as a trusted voice for the profession.”
Justin is the first Chair appointed from outside the UAE, and Monther Tayeb becomes the first Vice Chair appointed from Saudi Arabia.