Ahmad Itani, founder and CEO of Cicero & Bernay Public Relations (C&B) has become chairman of the Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA) MENA. He succeeds Omar Qirem, chief executive officer of Edelman Middle East, who served a two-year term as chairman and now becomes vice-chairman.

PRCA MENA represents 20 countries on its board of directors. In the last 12 months under Qirem’s leadership as chairman, PRCA MENA provided free practical resources, training sessions and memberships for members directly affected by Covid-19. PRCA MENA also collaborated with international partners more than ever, creating new opportunities for members to network and learn from their global peers, highlighted by initiatives led by the Global Covid-19 Communications Taskforce.

Itani says, “I am honoured to take on the role of PRCA MENA chairman. I would like to thank Omar for his strong leadership especially during a period of such adversity. The power of communications has come to the fore in these past 12 months proving its value to society and business across the Middle East and north Africa. Although the Covid-era is still upon us, there’s real confidence in our industry in the region. I look forward to continue to support our members and further strengthen PRCA MENA’s position as truly representative of the entire MENA region.”