Ex-OMD USA media chief joins Publicis to lead transformation in APAC

Publicis Groupe has appointed Suhaila Hobba as APAC global client partner – Transformation, a newly created position designed to fast-track the transformation agenda for the agency’s global clients across the region. Based in Singapore, Hobba will report directly to APAC CEO Jane Lin-Baden.

In her new role, Hobba will focus on delivering AI-powered solutions to help clients achieve growth and scale in the region’s dynamic markets. Her responsibilities includes integrating Publicis Groupe’s AI technologies into client strategies and offering bespoke solutions to address their evolving business needs.

With more than 25 years of experience spanning agency leadership, adtech and client-side, Hobba brings a wealth of expertise to the role. Relocating from Los Angeles to Singapore, she most recently served as chief media officer at OMD USA, where she led the agency’s media practice, aligning media, content, and commerce to drive client growth. Prior to that, she was the global head of digital for Amazon’s in-house agency, Mode, where she developed programmatic and paid social media capabilities. Her career also includes senior leadership roles at Yahoo, Omnicom, and IPG.

In China, Hobba will collaborate with Andy Ho, Publicis Communications leader and chief growth officer, to implement AI-powered transformation solutions in this key market for the Groupe’s global clients.

Commenting on her appointment, Hobba said: "I’m thrilled to join Publicis Groupe at a time when its investment in AI and innovation is leading the way in transformation. By combining strategic vision with cutting-edge technology, we can deliver meaningful outcomes for our clients."

Jane Lin-Baden, CEO of Publicis Groupe Asia Pacific, added: "We are delighted to welcome Suhaila Hobba to the Publicis family. Her global experience and expertise in driving transformation will be a tremendous asset in helping our clients navigate change and achieve sustainable growth."

The appointment is effective immediately.