Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – Universal McCann (UM) in Malaysia has named Sue-Anne Lim as its new chief executive officer. Her appointment officially takes effect on January 1, 2024; and officially replaces the interim management following Audrey Chong’s departure from the agency.
Sue-Anne has a total of 20 years’ experience in designing growth strategy for business and brand transformation, having worked with established MNC and GLC brands, with experience spanning multiple verticals.
She has first-hand experience in post-merger cultural integration and raising business value for acquisition, and previously held roles at Trapper, Clear KL (part of M&C Saatchi Global Network), and Dentsu Aegis Network.
Speaking on her new role, she said, “I am excited to join UM and be part of this incredibly dynamic team. I’m here to build a solid business and a brand that people love, trust and respect, while ensuring that UM fulfils its pledge to be future-ready for our people, communities, and clients. It’s crucial for us to stay in tune with current trends, as they not only shape how people work, live, and engage, but also defines what matters most to them now and for the future.”
She added, “UM aims to be a trusted marketing partner that helps clients predict and create innovative strategies to not only protect existing business value, but also discover new opportunities. We cannot avoid economic and industry headwind, but we can prepare ourselves and our clients for it, and together, we will thrive towards the future, despite all uncertainties.”
Meanwhile, Bala Pomaleh, chief executive officer of IPG Mediabrands Malaysia said, “Sue-Anne is a welcome addition to the Mediabrands executive leadership team. Her strong capabilities in leading clients into growth spaces, strategic branding and marketing, and keen experience across data, tech and business transformation hold her in good stead as we look to build on UM’s future growth momentum. She is uniquely suited for this role given her ability to unite talents and deep relationships in the industry, and we look forward to her driving more success for the UM brand.”
Lastly, Kasper Aakerlund, President of UM APAC, commented, “I am pleased to welcome Sue-Anne to the UM network. She is an accomplished executive with a proven track record of success. I am confident she will help propel UM Malaysia to even greater heights as we navigate an ever-evolving landscape for our clients.”
