Burson has announced two key appointments to its senior leadership team in its Middle East and North Africa region. Sana Ali Khan has been appointed Chief Client Officer, MENA, and Claire Lawson has taken on the role of Head of Burson Dubai, effective immediately.

Sana joined the agency from Amazon, where she was the Policy and Crisis Communications lead for the Middle East, Africa and Turkey, responsible for managing and defending the company’s corporate reputation across six countries. Before that, she was with Impact Porter Novelli in the Middle East, working with clients from industries including technology, consumer goods and retail.

“I’m eager to step into this role at a time of profound change for our industry and our clients,” said Sana. “In a region defined by rapid transformation, organisations are seeking partners who deliver sharp counsel, measurable impact, and AI-enabled speed. Burson has the vision and capabilities to meet this moment. I look forward to working with our talented teams to deepen client partnerships and ensure that an exceptional client experience remains at the centre of our work.”

Claire brought more than 15 years of agency experience in the Middle East, Europe, and Africa to her position, having served with Impact Porter Novelli, Edelman Middle East, APCO Worldwide in Dubai and Text100 in London, advising clients in industries ranging from mobility and transport to retail and professional services.

“It’s a privilege to take on this role as we continue shaping Burson’s next chapter in the region,” said Claire. “The reputation landscape is evolving at rapid pace and Dubai sits at the heart of that change. We have an incredible team and outstanding clients, and I look forward to driving the next phase of growth and impact in the market by raising the bar on our creative and strategic work and empowering our people to excel.”

“Sana and Claire are outstanding additions to our team,” said Fouad Bou Mansour, CEO, MENAT, Burson. “Sana is a strategic communications leader with a proven track record in driving brand reputation for Fortune 100 companies. Claire combines deep regional knowledge with a strong history of driving innovation, developing talent and unlocking growth. I am excited for the impact both Sana and Claire will make on our clients and our people in the region.” 

Tuan Atiqa Tuan Rahim has been promoted to Regional Strategy Consultant at SW Strategies.

Based in Kuala Lumpur and part of the regional leadership team, Atiqa will play a key role in supporting and overseeing markets across Southeast Asia, with a focus on strategic outreach and client success.

With a background in both consumer and corporate communications, Atiqa has supported clients across the technology, property, lifestyle, and non-profit sectors, such as Arthur D. Little, QI Group, RYTHM Foundation, and MapleBear Asiawide.

Commenting on the promotion, Atiqa shared, “I am truly honoured to step into this expanded role at SW Strategies. Our team's culture is our greatest asset; built on a foundation of mutual trust, incredible collaboration, and a shared drive to challenge ourselves and grow.”

Founder and Managing Director of SW Strategies, Jose Raymond, said, “Atiqa’s promotion reflects SW Strategies’ ongoing focus on developing regional leadership and empowering our team members to take on greater responsibilities across our Southeast Asia markets of interest.”