Shalaka Paradkar has joined DAMAC Group in Dubai as Senior Corporate Communications Manager. She brings over two decades of experience across agency, corporate and media environments. She has previously worked with PR agencies Gambit PR & Communications and BPG Group, where her content portfolio included global brands such as Samsung, Amazon, DHL, KPMG, Proofpoint and Sony.

Shalaka began her career in journalism and has held senior editorial roles at Khaleej Times and ITP, bringing a newsroom mindset to corporate storytelling. She has contributed to Vogue Arabia, AD Middle East, The Hollywood Reporter, Time Out, and Gulf News’ Friday magazine.

Cognito has announced the appointment of Tana Zhang as Managing Director, Hong Kong. She leads Cognito's operations, client service, and growth strategy in Hong Kong and the Greater China region to drive the agency’s integrated offering, spanning corporate communications, reputation advisory, events, and digital marketing.

Tom Coombes, Founder and CEO of Cognito, said, “We have a proud track record of providing exceptional communications advisory in Asia, but the market is evolving. Tana’s arrival signals a new phase of growth where we are doubling down on high-level financial communications and investor relations. Her deep understanding of the local market is a massive asset for our clients who need a sophisticated partner to decode the nuances of this critical economic hub.”

Tana joins Cognito from Edelman Smithfield, where she led the APAC financial communications team and counselled buy- and sell-side institutions on go-to-market strategy, crisis management, thought leadership, and stakeholder engagement. With experience in the asset management, insurance, private equity, real estate, family offices, and FinTech sectors, she previously worked in-house roles at PAG, Mizuho Securities, and AIA.

“I believe outstanding communications starts with an intimate understanding of the business and the environment it operates in," said Tana. "As the global economic landscape continues to evolve and new technologies profoundly change people’s news consumption habits, the need for better market positioning and effective storytelling has never been greater.

"I am thrilled to join Cognito at a time when clients are looking for high-impact visibility backed by strategic insights. I look forward to helping our clients build an enduring reputation, hone business resilience, and drive commercial success.”

FGS Global has appointed Susan Ho as Asia Chair. In this newly created role, she serves as a senior ambassador for the firm and is responsible for driving its multi-year growth strategy across Asia, providing strategic counsel to clients, and strengthening governance and collaboration across key markets and leadership teams.

This appointment sees Susan based in Hong Kong, while working closely with FGS Global's teams in Beijing, Shanghai, Singapore, and Tokyo. 

With more than 30 years of experience in branding, reputation, and crisis response, Susan brings in-house, business management, and professional services expertise, including currently serving as an Independent Non-Executive Director at Singapore's Mediacorp. 

“Susan’s appointment as Asia Chair reflects our commitment to investing in exceptional leadership and deepening our strategic advisory capabilities for clients across the region,” said Faeth Birch, CEO of UKMEA, FGS Global. “Susan’s experience in building brands, leading through complexity, and driving growth aligns perfectly with our ambitions for Asia. We are delighted to welcome her to the firm.”

Before joining FGS, Susan held global leadership roles at Airwallex, Brunswick Group, and Standard Chartered Bank, the latter in which she played a key role in establishing the bank's “Here for good” positioning and Liverpool Football Club sponsorship. Her portfolio further includes developing new brands, growing teams, and advising international and Asian clients on critical issues, leadership succession, and long-term campaign building.

“There has never been a more exciting yet challenging time in Asia," Susan remarked. "Businesses need critical advice and balanced perspectives to navigate complexities and uncertainties - FGS is trusted and best placed to help. I am privileged to work with a talented team to grow our coverage and ensure FGS is the first port of call for founders, business leaders and investors.”