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Global beauty company Coty has named Scarlett Chan (pictured) as its APAC regional marketing director, effective from July 2025, reporting to Shereen Au, vice president, portfolio and growth, APAC, Coty. In her new role, Chan oversees all one-axis fragrance portfolio across the APAC region including Chloé, Boss, Calvin Klein, Marc Jacobs, Jil Sander, Etro and a few Core fragrance brands, driving brand growth, go-to-market brand excellence and strategise portfolio opportunities in line with Coty strategic growth priorities. Chan also plays a key role in supporting Coty APAC in portfolio expansion and growth opportunities across the region, looking after 16 APAC markets including Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, India, Taiwan and multiple Southeast Asia countries. Chan first joined Coty in 2021 as marketing director for Hong Kong and Taiwan, leading the marketing strategy of over 10 beauty brands and accelerating Coty to be one of the fastest growing prestige beauty groups in Hong Kong in the past two years. Prior to joining Coty, Chan has gathered decades of experience in marketing, digital, eCommerce and CRM across different top beauty companies such as L’Oréal, Shiseido and Procter & Gamble. Commenting on her new role, Chan said she is excited to take on the elevated role and will continue to drive company success across the region. “A clear vision, when combined with genuine collaboration, becomes the guiding light that transforms ambition into achievement. Together, they pave a path where individual strengths unite, challenges become stepping stones, and success is not just a destination — it’s a shared journey.” Don’t miss: Coty and adidas bottle up good vibes in new fragrance lineup Back in April, Coty and apparel and sportswear brand adidas unveiled a new fragrance collection crafted for different occasions and needs of everyday life. From athletes during down time to fashion forward active lifestyle consumers, the “Vibes” collection acknowledges the influence of scents on human emotions. Inspired by the sport and cultural heritage of adidas, the new collection of six Eau de Parfums aims to elevate mood and emotional well-being, while capturing and matching the energy of everyday life. According to a statement seen by MARKETING-INTERACTIVE, the “Vibes” fragrances have been shown to evoke positive emotions where at least 81% agree that it makes them feel good while 85% said that it boosts their mood. Take your brand to new heights with cutting-edge AI strategies, innovative technology, and data-powered experiences. Don’t miss Digital Marketing Asia 2025 in Hong Kong on 20-21 October, where 200+ marketing leaders will explore game-changing trends, proven successes, and bold ideas shaping the future. Related articles: Coty names new VP of global trade marketing and commercial planningBeauty company Coty picks media agency in Asia for regional duties source

Happy Friday, MARKETING-INTERACTIVE readers and welcome back to Gen Z Perspectives, your go-to feature where we unpack the week’s top stories and trending topics through the eyes of Gen Z. From the biggest industry moves to viral moments and marketing controversies worth dissecting, we’re bringing the heat with authenticity, awareness and probably a few unfiltered takes. This week, K-pop icon JISOO bloomed with STB and Mandai in a music video, while we unpacked Netflix Malaysia’s cleverly twisted Wednesday-inspired campaigns. Letting this slide? Morticia wouldn’t allow it. Don’t miss: Gen Z perspectives: Are SG60 films built to last? 1. JISOO chooses her wild in new music video with STB and Mandai STB has teamed up with globally acclaimed K-pop artist JISOO to release a special video for Your Love, a track from her latest mini album AMORTAGE. Set against the lush backdrop of Singapore’s Mandai Wildlife Reserve, the video beautifully highlights the city-state’s natural wonders and world-class wildlife attractions, while enhancing the emotional depth of JISOO’s music. The collaboration aims to showcase Singapore’s diverse charms through K-content, inspiring both Korean and international audiences to explore the city’s rich culture and unique landscapes.  Read more here.  2. From Morticia to Mak Tisha: Netflix MY puts a Malaysian spin on the Addams Family Netflix Malaysia has given the beloved gothic clan a local twist, transforming the iconic Addams Family into a cheeky Malay version dubbed the “Adam’s Family,” inspired by the streaming giant’s hit series Wednesday. The short film stars Malaysia’s queen of local horror, Maya Karin, as ‘Mak Tisha’, a character who blends beauty with a hint of spookiness. She is paired with her devoted husband Tok Gomeh, played by Adi Afendi. Joining the quirky couple are Grandmama and Ali. Ali, portrayed by internet personality Bento, channels Pugsley’s look with his striped shirt, while Bento’s real-life grandmother steps into the role of Grandmama Read more here.  3. Netflix MY brings ‘ibu jari pelik’ to the streets of KL Netflix Malaysia is drumming up excitement for Wednesday Season 2 with a campaign that puts the spotlight squarely on a fan-favourite character — Thing. In a bold activation that blends on-ground engagement with social buzz, Netflix has launched a larger-than-life, mobile version of Thing, dubbed the “Thingmobile”, scuttling its way around the Klang Valley. Read more here. Accelerate your brand’s growth with AI-first strategies, emerging tech and data-driven experiences. Join 500+ marketing leaders at Digital Marketing Asia 2025 Singapore on 24–25 September to uncover transformative trends, real-world wins and powerful ideas for 2025 and beyond.  Related articles: Ministry of National Development calls creative, marketing and social media pitch for MSO   Adidas nabs PUMA SEA marketing head as director of brand activation       In conversation: What makes innovation work? source

Taylor Swift is in her Life of a Showgirl era and the world is here for it. After three years of breadcrumb trails, cryptic clues, and lyrical Easter eggs, the singer finally dropped news of her 12th studio album on a podcast with none other than her current beau, Travis Kelce. This new era is dripping in blood orange glamour, glitter, and unapologetic bling. On the podcast, Swift teased the album cover, only it was blurred out, sending Swifties into full detective mode. Early hints point to a teal-toned cover, but in true Swift fashion, nothing’s official until she says so. And it’s not just the fans getting swept up in the sparkle. Brands across the globe are jumping into the Showgirl spotlight with their own trendjacks, reimagining what it means to live their version of the showgirl dream. Here are some of MARKETING-INTERACTIVE’s favourite Life of a Showgirl-inspired posts so far — glitter, wit, and all. Don’t miss: Taylor Swift fans buy out Times Square billboard ad for Hot 100 achievement 1. Burger King Philippines  Life of a Showgirl? More like Life of a Burgirl. Burger King Philippines is serving up its own glitzy moment, swapping sequins for sesame seeds. In its trendjack, the brand’s iconic burger bun takes centre stage, with its tiny sesame toppings glamming it up as the sparkling jewels draped across Swift’s body in the original cover. 2. Canva  Canva is every marketing girl’s bestie and now, it’s gunning for the Swifties too. In its trendjack, the design platform flaunted a carousel of glittering orange backdrops, a nod to Life of a Showgirl’s dazzling palette. The cheeky subtext? If you’re plotting your own sparkly post, Canva’s got the tools (and the templates) to help you shimmer. 3. Domino’s Pizza Australia Domino’s Pizza Australia wasted no time jumping into the Showgirl spotlight, surprising Swifties and baffling casual pizza lovers. Its post showed a classic pepperoni-and-cheese pizza peeking out from behind a blurred teal image, padlock front and centre. Swifties praised the “speedy content,” while others were left scratching their heads, asking, “DoughlyFans?” 4. Duolingo Duolingo didn’t just trendjack Life of a Showgirl, it went full theatre kid. The language-learning platform’s giant green owl shared what it though each track on the album will be about, pairing them with the unhinged memes it’s most famous for. For example, Track 1, The Fate of Ophelia, got a nod to that time Duo “died” in a playful marketing stunt. Meanwhile, Track 10, Cancelled, was matched with a screenshot of its own TikTok page wiped clean, a throwback to when the brand nuked all its content following backlash over its new AI-first policy.  5. Dutch Lady Malaysia Dutch Lady Malaysia skipped the blood orange and went straight for full-cream glitter. Its trendjack features a sparkling blue backdrop with bold white text quoting Swift’s 22: “It feels like the perfect night for breakfast at midnight.” A nod to dairy-fuelled midnight snacks? Absolutely. Steering clear of the Life of a Showgirl colour palette? Bold move or a miss? We’ll let you be the judge. 6. Dunkin’ Donuts  Dunkin’ didn’t have to stretch far for this trendjack as it’s been living in its orange era all along. The coffee-and-donut giant simply cranked up the glitter on its iconic logo and dropped the cheeky caption: “We’ve always been in our orange era.” While it never name-dropped Life of a Showgirl, Swifties got the hint. One even quipped, “Taylor Swift may work hard, but Dunkin’ PR works harder.” Others used the moment to campaign for the return of Pumpkin Spice, because obviously, that’s what Taylor would want.  7. Guardian Singapore Swifties, welcome to your wellness era. Guardian Singapore teased fans with a blurry teal background and a glittering orange padlock, except this one’s unlocked. No, the beauty and wellness retailer isn’t dropping an album, but it is unlocking exclusive deals on its app. “Move swiftly,” it teases. And honestly? Don’t mind if we do. 8. Marina Square Singapore  Marina Square kept it low-key on the glitter front, but it brought the animation. Behind a blurred teal backdrop, a fluffy bun spins like a tiny vinyl record — subtle, quirky, and oddly mesmerizing. No orange sparkles here, but sometimes, understated can be just as catchy. 9. Pantone  Pantone showed us colours it knows we can’t see with anyone else. In an Instagram post, the brand pinpointed the exact shade of orange that defines Life of a Showgirl. Laurie Pressman, VP of the Pantone Color Institute, summed it up perfectly: “Taylor Swift is taking a bold stance with her new orange in The Life of a Showgirl. It’s uplifting, vitamin enriched, full of life and vitality. It’s a bright orange tone that brings a smile and evokes a playful spirit. It’s friendly, approachable and inviting. It’s a color and color family that makes perfect sense as she seems to be entering a new phase of her life where she is just positively beaming. This shade range suits her at this time, as she continues to radiate her happiness to the world.” 10. Shopee  Shopee joined the Life of a Showgirl fun in true viral style. Fans were quick to notice the teaser’s uncanny resemblance to the iconic Shopee bag, sparking memes such as “The Life of a Shopee Girl” and “Taylor for Shopee ambassador?” Leaning into the moment, Shopee posted its own cheeky tribute: “Life of a Shopee Bestie.” 11. Starbucks Got a long list of Starbucks lovers? Looks like the coffee giant is officially a fan of Swift’s Life of a Showgirl era too. In its trendjack, Starbucks put a caffeinated spin on 22, posting: “It feels like a perfect night for coffee at midnight.”  Related articles:  Better than revenge: Why Taylor Swift’s statement on Trump AI-generated photos hits the PR mark  Quick-thinking brands that have trendjacked Taylor Swift’s ‘The Tortured Poets Department’ Are you ready for Taylor Swift? These brands are source

To celebrate its 12th anniversary, FWD Group has launched 12 charitable grants aimed at supporting local communities across Asia. These grants focus on supporting non-governmental organisations (NGOs) with initiatives spanning financial literacy, social entrepreneurship, career readiness, and health and wellbeing within communities. Since its founding in 2013, FWD has grown from its beginnings in Hong Kong, Macau, and Thailand to now span 10 markets across Asia, including Cambodia, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Vietnam. In Hong Kong, FWD has expanded the JA SparktheDream programme in partnership with the non-profit Junior Achievement (JA) Hong Kong. This includes the launch of a workshop that combines financial education with social and emotional learning to engage primary school students. Alongside this, it has supported the local charity Women In Sports Empowered Hong Kong (WISE) to empower teenage girls through sports for mental wellbeing and self-confidence. While in Southeast Asia, FWD has partnered with GivingHub in Malaysia to provide 200 low-income families with health and financial literacy educational workshops, as well as 200 health screenings and consultations. ​ In Singapore, the brand has assisted children with chronic illnesses and their families by joining Ride & Walk for Rainbows 2025, and it has also organised a visit to Mandai Wildlife Reserve for children and youths with rare genetic and neurological disorders. This collaboration is being undertaken with Club Rainbow. Meanwhile, FWD has supported InnovateHer Academy 3.0 with Indonesian firm KUMPUL.ID to equip female entrepreneurs with business skills, mentorship, and investment readiness skills. It has also launched a new financial education programme with Prestasi Junior Indonesia. This new initiative will equip 30 school teachers with the skills and knowledge to deliver engaging and effective financial literacy lessons. Similarly, in the Philippines, FWD has joined forces with JA Philippines on the JA Forward Your Success initiative, which supports graduating college students with financial literacy and career planning. Beyond these markets, further initiatives have been rolled out in Cambodia, Japan, Thailand, and Vietnam, providing support to children, cancer patients, disadvantaged young people, and university students.​ Earlier this year, FWD extended its regional partnership with JA worldwide, to reach 40,000 more students across Asia by the end of 2027 with its award-winning financial literacy programme, according to the release. In the next phase, the programme aims to integrate new tools to strengthen financial literacy, mental wellness, and resilience – while involving more teachers and families in the process. Huynh Thanh Phong, group chief executive officer and executive director of FWD Group, said, “Celebrating our 12th anniversary as a newly listed company makes this milestone especially meaningful. The life insurance business is a deeply personal one, with FWD now touching the lives of 30 million people and their families across Asia. With caring as one of our core values at FWD, giving back in tangible and impactful ways to the wider community is a big part of our vision of changing the way people feel about insurance.” MARKETING-INTERACTIVE has reached out to FWD Group for more inforamtion. Take your brand to new heights with cutting-edge AI strategies, innovative technology, and data-powered experiences. Don’t miss Digital Marketing Asia 2025 in Hong Kong on 20-21 October, where 200+ marketing leaders will explore game-changing trends, proven successes, and bold ideas shaping the future. Related articles: FWD Insurance tackles travel pain points this holiday seasonRichard Li’s FWD Group files for HK IPO againFWD HK and SinoPac ink deal to offer diversified wealth management offerings​ source

Asia is home to some of the world’s most historic monuments such as the Great Wall and the Taj Mahal. It is also home to roughly 60% of the world’s population and makes up nearly 55% of the global GDP. Hardly surprising then, that Asia is no longer viewed as a place where you go to just view history but a place where brands go to make history. Over the last few decades though, Western brands have had mixed fortunes in entering the Asian market. Success, when it has come, has been hard to maintain. ‘The Hollywood effect’ may have helped some brands make a dashing entrance. However, remaining relevant has proven almost as hard as making a hit three-hour movie in the age of TikTok. Brands have learnt the hard way that success yesterday is not a cheque that can be cashed infinitely into the future. So how does one decode Asia? What do brands need to do to succeed? How do they maintain success, in this rapidly evolving market? Asia. One word. Two syllables. Countless textures. Over centuries, Asian countries have had connections through ancient trading routes. More than silk and spices, ideas, beliefs and stories crossed borders and touched lives. (China’s largest eCommerce company gets its name from a Middle Eastern fable.) Yes, there are some similarities such as the values of filial piety and hard work that go hand in hand with a respect for tradition and spirituality, but there are numerous differences. Each country is shaped by four forces: Unique culture, current challenges, evolving ambition, indigenous ingenuity. Think of these four forces as tectonic plates that are constantly moving. Their interplay at any given point of time can lead to changing attitudes and desires that can cause significant market disruption and innovation. In India, the wave of mobile data is washing away age-old bastions of tradition. eCommerce is easing the stranglehold of 13 million kirana retail shops. It will be close to 15% of all retail sales this year. Even Cupid seems to be not immune to digital avenues. The online match-making matrimonial service, Shaadi.com, has already enabled five million marriages. In China, definitions of brand luxury have changed faster than you can say Louis Vuitton. Ostentatious shows of yesteryear, in which people wore tracksuits with Prada emblazoned so big and bold even the chronically myopic could see them from a mile away, have given way to a quiet ‘minimalism’. Digital payments adoption is so incredible that when I attempted to pay an old lady fruit seller along the Lijiang-Ringha highway in cash, she gave me a withering look as if I had emerged from the Jurassic era. She only accepted mobile payments. In Indonesia, ride hailing and delivery services are oh-so-yesterday. The Gojek super app can even arrange for hair styling and cleaning services at home. In Thailand, the nearly six million LGBTQ population has prompted Vaseline to create a product exclusively for them. The Transition body lotion addresses the unique skin needs that arise from hormone therapy. And in the Lion City, Singapore, the pragmatic population have shed their reservations of ‘Made in China’ cars. The roar of a BYD hasn’t just left EVs from Tesla in the rear-view mirror, they have recently become the top selling car in Singapore bar none. The winning edge Now, winning in these markets is not just about observing the changing trends. The winning edge comes through smartly delivering a product for an unmet need – such as the idea to create Vaseline’s Transitions body lotion came from its ad agency, or getting the winning edge by delivering the brand’s message through a fresh creative idea that cuts through the clutter. Evidence of that is the highly creative work that successfully launched rice bowls at KFC in Thailand and the stunt driver car review to promote a local Netflix show in Indonesia. Mountain Dew’s radio work in the Philippines uses great creativity to tap into the booming online gaming market, by fusing user behaviour and branding in an authentic way. Many brands try to take the easy way out by using popular influencers. The key watch out here is that each brand has a unique personality and tone of voice. So does each influencer. And the influencers will always stay true to their personality and tone of voice. This leads to a brand having a diffused image in the minds of its customers. Brands are built over time by living out their values and beliefs in the public sphere. Brands that have succeeded in Asia have a constant finger on the pulse of the market, while speaking with their own voice and acting true to their beliefs. This means capitalizing on opportunities, while avoiding the temptation to put a capybara in your ad just because they are trending. Brands that succeed in Asia always leverage great creativity to amplify an insight and connect emotionally with the market. This magic combination is hard to achieve. It is even harder to duplicate by following the same formula. This is for the simple reason that the tectonic plates of unique culture, current challenges, evolving ambition and indigenous ingenuity are constantly moving. At light speed. Stay relevant. Stay fresh. Stay true to your brand. And stay away from blindly repeating what worked once in Asia. It is about as useful as always betting on the same number in Vegas. This article was written by Farrokh Madon, chief creative officer at Pirate.  source

Athletic apparel and footwear giant adidas has reportedly issued a formal apology following backlash in Mexico over its use of traditional indigenous huaraches sandals as inspiration for its new ‘Oaxaca slip-on’ shoe model. In a statement by Julia Dusemond, adidas’ deputy manager of media relations shared with the Associated Press (AP), the brand reaffirmed its commitment to engaging in “respectful dialogue” with the Zapotec community of Villa Hidalgo de Yalálag, Oaxaca, whose cultural legacy inspired the design.  Dusemond reportedly added that the brand recognises and values the cultural richness of Mexico’s indigenous communities and the significance of their artisanal heritage.  Don’t miss: Simu Liu calls out bubble tea brand for cultural appropriation: Why its apology missed mark Known as ‘Huaraches’, the flat, intricately braided leather sandals, are traditionally handcrafted in various Mexican states, including Oaxaca. The ‘Oaxaca slip-on’, developed by adidas Originals in collaboration with American designer Willy Chavarria, allegedly aimed to merge the traditional huarache style with a modern sneaker sole, offering an urban twist on ancestral footwear. Chavarria has since issued a public apology for the controversy too.  According to Reuters, Chavarria apologised that the shoe was appropriated in this design, and that it was not developed in direct and meaningful partnership with the Oaxaacn community.  Meanwhile, Mexico’s president Claudia Sheinbaum reportedly said her administration is exploring legal measures to support Indigenous communities whose designs are used by large companies, following criticism from Oaxaca officials. Flavio Sosa, Oaxaca’s secretary of culture, told the AP he is awaiting the outcome of discussions between residents of Villa Hidalgo de Yalálag, state governor Salomon Jara, and federal officials to determine how to address the issue. adidas has also allegedly requested a virtual meeting with governor Jara to seek a resolution. In a post on X, Jara called on the brand to halt sales of the ‘Oaxaca slip-on’, properly credit the affected communities, and provide compensation. He added:  Culture is not sold, it is respected. Desde Oaxaca, nos pronunciamos para proteger el trabajo de nuestras comunidades. Este no es un acto aislado, sino parte de un esfuerzo institucional por reivindicar a las comunidades que, sistemáticamente, han sido marginadas, discriminadas y despojadas en nombre de la tendencia.… pic.twitter.com/J25eAW8nf3 — Salomón Jara Cruz (@salomonj) August 7, 2025 Checks done by MARKETING-INTERACTIVE found that promotional images of the ‘Oaxaca slip-on’ have been removed from adidas’ official website and social media channels.  MARKETING-INTERACTIVE has reached out for more information.  adidas’ controversy over its Oaxaca sandal echoes a growing list of major brands stumbling over cultural appropriation accusations in recent years. Luxury label Gucci faced backlash in 2019 for a jumper design critics said resembled blackface imagery, forcing a swift apology. Similarly, Dolce & Gabbana’s 2018 ad campaign in China was slammed for leaning on offensive stereotypes. Fast-fashion giant H&M ignited outrage in 2018 with an ad featuring a Black child wearing a hoodie emblazoned with the phrase “Coolest monkey in the jungle”, sparking calls for greater cultural sensitivity. Photo courtesy of Hypebeast, Instagram.  Join us on 20 August at PR Asia 2025 and take charge of the new era of PR. Tackle trust head-on, stay ahead of shifting policies, and harness AI to power up your comms game. Get inspired, get connected, and get future-ready.  Related articles: Interview: adidas wants to do more than just rep Singapore, it wants to run with it     Dynasty drip: How adidas’ Tang CNY jacket rewrites the fashion playbook     adidas’ brand sentiments plummet after dropping model Bella Hadid for Palestinian support source

After more than 15 years with Domino’s Pizza Malaysia, Singapore and Cambodia, former chief marketing officer Linda Hassan is finally closing a significant chapter of  her career. Over the nearly three decades she has had in the workforce, with just two companies on her resume, Linda has been instrumental in shaping Domino’s into one of the most recognisable brands in the quick-service restaurant (QSR) space in Malaysia – despite its comparatively smaller store count. Her QSR career began in 1997 at Burger King Malaysia as deputy director of marketing and procurement. She then joined Domino’s Malaysia as senior manager, later becoming SVP of marketing for Malaysia and Singapore in 2010, and was appointed group chief marketing officer in 2020, and Cambodia added to her remit. During her tenure, Linda oversaw campaigns that pushed the boundaries of customer engagement, strengthened Domino’s digital capabilities, and built a distinctive brand voice in a competitive market. Reflecting on her journey, she told A+M that her time with Domino’s has been defined as much by the people she worked with as by the marketing milestones achieved.Don’t miss: Linda Hassan departs Domino’s Pizza MY & SG “In over 15 years, I have encountered many people, and my team has always been one of the biggest reasons I’ve stayed with Domino’s for so long. Teams come and go, but I’ve cherished every relationship and teamwork experience, as each person has brought unique value,” she shared. Some members have been with her since her earliest days in the company, while others have grown into new roles under her mentorship. From call centre staff moving into digital leadership, to store operations personnel leading marketing campaigns or mastering data analytics. She also credits the support from colleagues beyond her immediate team, including agency partners and the global Domino’s network. “I owe much of our success to the supportive teamwork, clear goals, and shared vision fostered by these partnerships,” she said. Since announcing her departure, Linda has been touched by the flood of messages she has received: I did not realise the impact I had on people. Not only professionally, but emotionally as well. “My one sentence of reply to all of them is: ‘I am here because each of you has made a difference on me and I am here for each of you in whatever the future circumstances is,’” she said. Linda also expressed gratitude to her long-time mentor, former group CEO Ba-U Shan Ting, whose encouragement and investment in her growth provided the management skills to complement her marketing expertise. Key learnings from the journey Over the years, Linda has developed a clear philosophy on what it takes to lead marketing teams effectively. She said: At any point of time, marketing work is beyond a desk work. Some marketers got it wrong when it is about just making things viral or beautiful. For her, marketing is as much about building credibility and brand love as it is about visibility – and that requires bridging knowledge gaps within teams and fostering a happy, motivated workforce. “A happy team produces impactful, believable ideas and efforts will then flow naturally,” she added, noting that people must come before strategy, execution and cash, echoing the principles of Scaling Up by Verne Harnish. Linda also emphasised the importance of mastering the fundamentals. She said that understanding the overall value stream in any business is crucial to creating impactful customer journeys. Quoting Simon Sinek, she added: “When people are financially invested, they want a return, when people are emotionally invested, they want to contribute.” When it comes to working with agencies, Linda believes the right chemistry is everything. “It’s critical to either have enough internal capability or to choose the right partner to work with you to ensure that you design and implement the right ecosystem for your business,” she explained. While Domino’s benefits from being a global brand, she cautioned that not every global formula fits every market, and that understanding local nuances and consumer behaviour is key to building brand love. Something as simple as misunderstanding the differences between the ‘what’ (brand assets), and the ‘how’ (actual building of brand love), will deter engagement, preventing loyalty to the brand. As for her leadership style, Linda is known for speaking up even when others hesitate. “Instead of being told and asking for permission, I decide and move even when I might not be 100% sure because 100% certainty only happens in hindsight,” she said. She describes herself as a risk taker who balances data and insights with experience, gut feel and a strong desire to win. What’s next for Linda? For now, Linda is taking a pause. Something she has done only once before in her career. “I want to take this opportunity to upskill myself in a few new areas, invest in myself and rebuild relationships, while continuing to do what I love most. And that is helping others,” she said. She hopes to contribute her hands-on customer centricity, brand-building expertise and business acumen to help companies grow or turn around, while also mentoring the next generation of marketers. Jobs are bound to come, but I just want to choose what is right, where I can make a difference. Looking back, Linda feels she leaves Domino’s in a strong position. “I have seen this brand grew from a brand that is unknown 15 years ago and way below in ranking to a brand that now sits next to the biggest brand in the QSR industry despite a lower store count,” she said. She closed with a quote that encapsulates her belief in the link between employee experience and customer loyalty: “The way your employee feels is the way you customers will feel. If employee doesn’t feel valued, neither will your customers.” Accelerate your brand’s growth with AI-first strategies, emerging tech and data-driven experiences. Join the industry’s leading marketers at Digital Marketing Asia 2025 Malaysia on 30 October to uncover transformative trends, real-world wins and powerful ideas for 2025 and beyond. Related articles: Domino’s Malaysia

Real estate agency ERA Singapore has appointed Lydia Wong as head of communications, where she will lead the brand, marketing, and public relations functions. As head of communications, Wong will also oversee integrated communications across departments, from strategic planning to creative content, social media, and recruitment marketing.  In her new role, Wong will work closely with ERA agents and team leaders to co-create campaigns that deepen connections with consumers and stakeholders. She will also contribute to the brand’s community-focused initiatives, aligning with her personal belief that businesses should give back, she told MARKETING-INTERACTIVE.  Don’t miss: OpenAI names new head of comms for SG and SEA  Wong joins ERA Singapore from MindChamps where she was senior director of group brand communications. Prior to which she was director of marketing at Golden Village Multiplex, general manager of marketing at Popular Holdings Limited and brand development manager at BreadTalk Group, according to her LinkedIn.  Speaking to her new role, Wong said that she’s “always been fascinated by property investment”.  “At ERA, I get to combine that fascination with my passion for marketing and branding. I’m looking forward to the many exciting campaigns in the pipeline, as well as contributing to ERA’s community-focused initiatives. Real estate, to me, is about milestones, dreams, and relationships. I can’t wait to shine a light on the people and moments that make those dreams possible,” said Wong.  She added that she’s impressed by ERA’s consistent branding since its establishment in 1982 and that she’s lookling forward to pioneering new initiatives with the real estate agency.  “Joining ERA feels like the start of a meaningful new chapter. I’ve always believed that communication is most powerful when it comes from the heart, it should make people feel seen, valued, and inspired. In this role, I’m eager to blend creativity, strategy, and purpose to tell stories that matter and to shine a light on the people who make ERA extraordinary,” she said.  Wong’s appointment comes as other property agencies double down on branding. Earlier in March, PropNex refreshed its logo, marking its first major rebrand since its founding in 2000. The rebrand aimed to reflect its evolving identity and commitment to staying at the forefront of the real estate industry. The move was also accompanied by a new merch line for its agents, blending practicality with street style. The collection included an athleisure-inspired jacket and accessories such as a lanyard, ID tag holder, tumbler, and laser pointer. In similar vein, property listing and marketplace platform PropertyGuru released a limited-edition reversible jacket paying tribute to property agents and their role in helping Singaporeans find comfort, belonging, and a sense of home. Accelerate your brand’s growth with AI-first strategies, emerging tech and data-driven experiences. Join 500+ marketing leaders at Digital Marketing Asia 2025 Singapore on 24–25 September to uncover transformative trends, real-world wins and powerful ideas for 2025 and beyond.  Related articles:   PropertyGuru honours property agents with SG60 streetwear drop  PropNex steps into street style with fresh merch for realtors  OrangeTee simplifies the real estate experience with brand refresh source

Meta has updated its anti-scam advertising tool, “Brand rights protection”, including some of the most requested features by businesses who use the tool. These updates further empower businesses to take control of how their brands are used and help protect people from harmful or misleading experiences. As part of Meta’s ongoing efforts to combat fraud and scams, “Brand rights protection” serves as a unified tool enabling businesses to monitor for and report misuse of their brand across ads and organic content on Facebook and Instagram, such as intellectual property infringement and business impersonation. A key addition in the latest update allows all enrolled businesses to report suspected scam ads at scale, even when it does not explicitly use their intellectual property. This includes suspected scams and misleading ads that exploit a brand’s name without authorisation. With this expanded capability, businesses will be able to better protect their brands and customers from potential scams. To access this option, people can use the “Other” violation type on the ads tab. Meanwhile, Meta has redesigned the takedown request experience to minimise required steps. The Drafts tab now features sub-tabs categorised by violation type: Copyright, Counterfeit, Impersonation, and Trademark. Additionally, the reporting experience has been streamlined to allow businesses to search or filter within the Reports tab using email report IDs, keywords, trademark names, and report owner names. This simplified reporting experience is more intuitive and user-friendly, making it easier for brands to manage and execute their takedown requests, ultimately requiring fewer steps and saving users’ time. All businesses that meet the requirements may apply to use the tool. Beyond the tool, Meta has taken a comprehensive approach to countering fraud and scams. It has automated detection and content review systems that remove fake accounts and scam posts. For example, in 2024, Meta removed more than 157 million pieces of ad content globally across Facebook and Instagram for violating its policies against Fraud, Scam, and Deceptive Practices or Unacceptable Business Practices. It has also collaborated with experts, law enforcement and industry partners to share insights that can help hold threat actors accountable. Take your brand to new heights with cutting-edge AI strategies, innovative technology, and data-powered experiences. Don’t miss Digital Marketing Asia 2025 in Hong Kong on 20-21 October, where 200+ marketing leaders will explore game-changing trends, proven successes, and bold ideas shaping the future. Related articles: Meta sees revenue dip again amidst Big Tech slumpMeta unveils ‘Movie Gen’, a new movie-making AI model source

Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest and most awarded carrier, has appointed Southeast Asia-based PR and marketing agency Ellerton & Co. as its agency of record for Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand. The partnership will see Ellerton & Co. lead efforts to humanise the airline’s brand across key markets, highlighting Ethiopia not just as a destination, but as a story worth discovering. With Addis Ababa as a strategic gateway to Africa and Singapore as a key hub in Asia, the partnership aims to build bridges between the two regions, one story at a time. Don’t miss: Emirates takes flight with new PR agency for SEA  Known for its world-class service, modern fleet, and extensive network, Ethiopian Airlines has quietly built a legacy of compassion in the skies. From arranging medical care and covering expenses for a young child mid-journey to being one of the few international airlines that allow pets to travel in the cabin, the airline has consistently gone the extra mile for its passengers.  “These are the stories that define us,” said Telila Deressa Gutema, regional manager, Ethiopian Airlines. “Our planes may carry passengers across continents, but it’s our people who carry their hopes and dreams. That spirit of care defines who we are—from helping a family in crisis to welcoming pets in the cabin. As Ethiopia opens up and its economy accelerates, there’s a growing world of opportunity for both business and leisure. We’re investing in our fleet and our people to meet that demand—and we can’t wait to share the spirit of Ethiopian hospitality with more travellers from Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand,” he added.  In tandem, Oliver Ellerton, founder of Ellerton & Co. said “Ethiopia is a country that many in Asia don’t know much about, but it’s unforgettable once you do.” “It’s the birthplace of coffee, home to ancient churches carved into rock, and the cradle of humankind. And the food—I’ve had injera in Yemen, the U.S., London, and Ethiopia itself, it’s always been a joy. People across Asia-Pacific will love it. Our job is to tell these stories, to bring out the warmth and soul of both the airline and the country it represents,” he added.  In tandem, Telila Deressa Gutema, regional manager, Ethiopian Airlines said  Ethiopian Airlines has been named “Best Airline in Africa” by Skytrax for eight consecutive years and operates one of the youngest fleets in the world, including Boeing 787 Dreamliners and Airbus A350s. The airline is also pioneering sustainable aviation, using sustainable aviation fuel and preparing for the deployment of electric air taxis. The airlines also joins a growing roster of hospitality and travel clients for Ellerton & Co., which includes EHL Hospitality Business School, Andermatt Swiss Alps, and Smiling Gecko Cambodia, alongside its core work in finance, technology, startups and venture capital, and corporate and sustainability.  The appointment also comes as Ellerton & Co. continues its rapid expansion across Southeast Asia. Most recently, the agency established a dedicated office in the Philippines, supported by new senior hires to strengthen its local presence. This addition complements the agency’s existing offices in Singapore, Vietnam, and Indonesia, as well as its network of consultants across Thailand, India, and Hong Kong, allowing it to offer seamless support across the region. With this growth, Ellerton & Co. positions itself as a strategic partner for ambitious, globally-minded Filipino companies looking to expand into neighbouring markets. At the same time, the agency aims to guide Asian and international brands navigating the Philippine communications landscape, helping them connect with local audiences while scaling their presence in Southeast Asia.  Accelerate your brand’s growth with AI-first strategies, emerging tech and data-driven experiences. Join 500+ marketing leaders at Digital Marketing Asia 2025 Singapore on 24–25 September to uncover transformative trends, real-world wins and powerful ideas for 2025 and beyond.  Related articles:   Ellerton & Co. turns its focus on the Philippines with new senior hires Ellerton & Co. nabs new executive director to drive SEA expansion  SIA, Malaysia Airlines partnership gets green light with conditions on pricing  source