Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – Dentsu Malaysia has announced the appointment of Audrey Chong as its new CEO effective October 1, 2023. Chong will be taking over from Kien Eng Tan who will be retiring after having served as CEO since February 2021.
Previously having been the CEO of Universal McCann Malaysia, Chong brings 25 years of industry experience across media, creative, strategy and digital marketing with in-depth understanding and expertise of the Malaysian market.
In her role, she will be responsible for growing and continuing the business transformation journey whilst driving integration across practices. Her perspective on building an agency model that delivers on clients’ needs will see new opportunities and growth.
Speaking on her own appointment, Chong said, “I look forward to joining dentsu Malaysia and foresee exciting times ahead. I strongly believe in dentsu’s strategy and the direction they are moving in, with new products, integrated servicing, and innovation to meet the market’s needs. They have strong momentum off the back of some significant market wins, and I believe Dentsu is poised to break away from the pack and build new growth and industry opportunities.
Sanjay Bhasin, CEO of dentsu Southeast Asia commented, “I really wanted a hands-on practitioner who understood the market challenges and nuances; someone who could build upon the wins and momentum Kien and his team have created which have mostly been large local giants requiring deep understanding of the dynamic Malaysian market. Audrey’s reputation speaks for itself. She’s built a solid media agency now ranked number one in RECMA. She has a competitive skill set that will drive the business to new heights and is also a warm, intelligent, caring person who will make a great addition to our strong local Malaysian agency and our Southeast Asia leadership team.”
Meanwhile, Kien Eng Tan, outgoing CEO of dentsu Malaysia, said, “I’ve had an incredible journey with dentsu Malaysia and I’m happy to have spent my time here in the last few years of my agency career. I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity I have had to lead such a talented and creative team and I am confident that the spirit of innovation and passion for creativity will continue to thrive. The industry is fast changing, and I eagerly look forward to seeing great campaigns under the guidance of our new leadership.”
