Via Group marks two years with five new hires to power next growth phase

Industry update

Via Group marks two years with five new hires to power next growth phase

by Telum Media

19 June 2025 4:00 PM

3 mins read

Celebrating two years as a cross-border integrated marketing and communications agency, Via Group has made five strategic hires in Sydney. This comes as the agency looks to accelerate its expansion and better assist its global clients across the Asia Pacific region.

Via's new bench joins to bolster its three business arms of Strategic Communications and Advisory, PR and thought leadership, and Marketing and Commercialisation.

Karyn Smith has been appointed as COO. She brings more than 15 years' experience, having led senior business management roles across agency, client-side and media sales. With a 360-degree perspective to commercial strategy, operations and client service, Karyn will focus on building scalable systems and operational effectiveness as Via continues to grow, particularly offshore.

Jacqueline Barham has joined as Marketing Director. She has previously scaled new ventures and driven business transformation through marketing strategies and digital innovation. Jacqueline brings experience across various industries, including financial services, insurance, and entertainment, with senior roles at Qantas, HSBC, and Insurance Australia Group.

Lydia Maranta has been welcomed as Client Partner, bringing international expertise in corporate communications, brand positioning and reputation management. Previously based in London, she worked at Reckitt and M&C Saatchi, where she led diverse teams, built cross-sectoral partnerships, and delivered global campaigns. Lydia is supporting Via's international clients as they expand and navigate the Australian market.

Oliver (Ollie) Goldsmith has relocated from London to join the team as Digital Specialist. With a background in social media strategy, paid campaigns, and digital content, he previously worked at Hanover Communications advising government bodies, financial institutions and pharmaceutical firms across Europe and the Middle East.

Hinal Parekh has started as Account Manager. Previously at Keep Left and Honner, she has worked across sectors including property, tech, financial services and not-for-profit.

Founder and CEO of Via, Tala Booker, said: "We pride ourselves on being a high-touch, boutique and senior team, acting as a true partner and extension to our clients as they navigate, deepen or expand across Asia Pacific.

"This team brings stellar international experience to our clients and a shared belief in the power of clarity to cut through complexity. Each member of our team strengthens our ability to advise and execute for our clients with confidence and precision - whether we’re working with scaling firms going to market in new countries or helping multinational firms, one thing remains true - we know how to help businesses and leaders connect with audiences across borders, cultures and engage their audiences more meaningfully."

Telum Media creating connections

Get in touch to learn more

Book a demo

You might also enjoy

Moves

Action Global Communications appoints MD in KSA

Barry King has been appointed Managing Director of Action Global Communications' operations in Saudi Arabia, having spearheaded the agency's re-entry into the Kingdom. Re-establishing the firm's Riyadh office in 2024, he continues expanding the agency's footprint, expertise, and offerings in Saudi Arabia and the wider region.

Barry has been with Action for close to nine years, and prior to his latest appointment, he served as the agency's UAE General Manager. Before Action, he held journalism roles with more than 15 years of experience at titles including 7DAYS UAE, Emirates Today, and Gazette Media Company (part of Trinity Mirror) in the UK.

16 October 2025 9:54 AM

1 min read

Moves

Elevate Communication appoints Communication Director

Integrated marketing and communication agency, Elevate Communication, has bolstered its senior leadership team with the appointment of Amanda Gormley as its new Communication Director. She will lead the agency's communication clients, overseeing national strategy, campaign delivery, and PR programs across the agency’s client portfolio spanning finance, tech, government, health, property, agriculture and not-for-profit sectors.

Amanda brings more than 18 years' experience in strategic communication, PR, media and stakeholder engagement across consumer, corporate and government sectors. She has held senior roles at Australian and London-based agencies, specialising in public relations, issues management, executive profiling, sponsorship, and talent management.

Elevate's Managing Director, Mel Deacon, said Amanda's appointment reinforces the agency's commitment to investing in senior talent and deepening its communication expertise.

"Amanda is an exceptional communicator and leader who brings both creative vision and commercial acumen," Mel said.

"Her appointment adds further depth to our senior team as we continue to expand nationally and build on our reputation as one of Australia's most trusted marketing communication partners."

16 October 2025 7:28 AM

1 min read

Moves

Roksar Kamal takes on broader responsibilities at agency

MCN has promoted Roksar Kamal to Senior Public Relations Manager. In this expanded role, she is driving the strategic PR agenda across a broader portfolio of MCN’s creative agencies, with a focus on amplifying the agency's work, elevating its leadership presence, strengthening partnerships across the region and strengthening brand equity across key sectors and markets.

"I’m excited to play a deeper role in shaping how we tell our story - to the industry, to our partners, and to the world," Roksar added.

Roksar has been with the agency since last year, and prior to this, she managed PR at Knight Frank Middle East. She also brings content experience from noon, Namshi.com, and ITP.

16 October 2025 2:48 AM

1 min read