PLUG launches Singapore office led by Jolin Ng

 Financial and professional services focused PR and communications consultancy, Leon Communications, has welcomed Hanna Tantoco as a Senior Adviser.

Hanna brings more than 15 years' experience across fintech, crypto, financial services, and complex regulated sectors, having led integrated marketing and communications initiatives that strengthen brand positioning, support business growth, and shape industry narratives. She has built and scaled marketing and communications functions across APAC and global markets, while advising senior executives on reputation management, thought leadership, strategic messaging, and stakeholder engagement.

Most recently, Hanna served as Senior Director of Global Media Relations at global blockchain infrastructure company, Blockdaemon, where she led global PR strategy and positioned executives as industry voices. Prior to that, she was at Gemini, where she built and led the regional communications and PR function across APAC, following leadership roles at Crossbridge Capital, Aetna, OCBC, and Standard Chartered Bank.

Managing Director of Leon Communications, Tim Williamson, said: "As Blockchain and digital assets continue to reshape the mainstream financial services landscape, Hanna brings terrific experience both in the traditional wealth management space and with industry-leading firms in blockchain infrastructure and cryptocurrencies. We’re excited to bring her expertise to support our existing clients while also growing our client base in digital assets and blockchain."

Hanna commented: "What drew me to Leon was the firm's clear focus on client partnership, quality advisory work, and momentum across the market. I'm excited to collaborate with the team to help clients navigate reputation, regulatory, and stakeholder challenges across financial services, public sector, and corporate communications."

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.” 

The Ogilvy Group China has named Yong Yuan as Chief Executive Officer of the Group.

In the new role, Yong will oversee people, clients and growth across The Ogilvy Group in China, fostering collaboration across its public relations, influence, advertising, digital experience, and social capabilities. He will also strengthen alignment across the Group’s agency portfolio, including Ogilvy and Grey. Both agency brands will retain their distinct identities and continue serving clients independently.

Yong will report to Chris Reitermann, Chief Executive Officer of WPP Greater China. He brings experience in brand building, client development, and people leadership, and previously served as President of Ogilvy Advertising China.

Commenting on the appointment, Chris said, “I have had the privilege of working closely with Yong for 15 years and have seen firsthand the leader he has become. His strategic vision, integrity and unwavering commitment to our clients and people have earned him the trust and respect of colleagues and clients alike.

"His appointment reflects our long-term commitment to developing leadership from within and empowering proven talent to make an even greater impact. It gives me immense pride to see Yong step into this role, and I have every confidence in his ability to lead The Ogilvy Group China into its next chapter of growth. I look forward to continuing our partnership as we create even greater value for our clients.”

Yong added, “As I take on this broader Group leadership responsibility, I look forward to working closely with our teams across Ogilvy and Grey to strengthen collaboration, unlock new opportunities for our clients, and create an environment where our people can do the best work of their careers.”