Hill+Knowlton picks Sconaid McGeachin as Regional Prez & CEO for India, Middle East, Africa, Turkey

Hill+Knowlton Strategies announced today that Sconaid McGeachin, Chief Operating Officer of H+K Middle East and Turkey, will become Regional President and Chief Executive Officer for the firm’s India, Middle East, Africa and Turkey operations. McGeachin will continue to be based in Dubai and report directly to Jack Martin, global chairman and CEO of H+K Strategies.

McGeachin formally assumes the role of Regional President and CEO following the sad passing of Dave Robinson, former Regional President and CEO of H+K for Australia, Middle East, Africa, South and Central Asia, in late September. While McGeachin will take on Robinson’s roles in India, Middle East, Africa and Turkey, Sue Cook will continue to lead Australia as Managing Director.
As COO of H+K Middle East and Turkey for the last four years, McGeachin oversaw the operations across Turkey and the eight H+K offices in the Middle East network. In addition to her corporate leadership responsibilities, she also served as a senior client leader on multiple accounts, including dnata, Intel, Dubai World Trade Centre, Etihad Rail, GAFI and Mubadala Aerospace.

“Sconaid is one of our most trusted and respected colleagues within the H+K global network and I am extremely confident in her abilities to lead this far-reaching region,” said Martin. “She worked closely with Dave for many years and has extensive experience managing integrated corporate communications campaigns including devising cross border corporate reputation programs. Sconaid provides unrivaled senior counsel on internal communications and change management, and on issues and crisis management, which positions her to continue our growth in India, Middle East, Africa and Turkey.”

McGeachin has spent more than 20 years working in international communications, beginning her career by implementing specialist marketing communications in the defense sector for Avon Rubber plc. McGeachin then worked for a regional UK PR consultancy before joining Mmd. During her 18 years there, she headed up the IT practice in London before moving to set up an office in Russia. McGeachin became general manager in Poland and then regional director for Mmd’s South East Europe operations overseeing all of South East Europe before Mmd’s sale to the Huntsworth Group plc.

“It is a tremendous privilege to have been appointed Dave’s successor,” said McGeachin. “Having collaborated so closely with Dave over the last few years, I will endeavour to continue his vision to mentor and develop our teams, increase professionalism and successfully grow our operations in these developing markets.”
Sconaid is currently Chair of the Middle East PR Association (MEPRA).