Kekst CNC Expands Regional Footprint with Senior Hire in Abu Dhabi

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Global strategic communications boutique Kekst CNC has named seasoned communications executive Luciana Blackwell as Partner in its Abu Dhabi office, aiming to reinforce the firm’s regional capabilities in digital strategy, corporate positioning, and financial communications.

With more than two decades of experience shaping Abu Dhabi’s communications landscape, Blackwell has held senior roles across government, energy, culture, and sustainability, including at ADNOC, the Department of Culture and Tourism, and Masdar.

She was also the first digital editor of The National, Abu Dhabi’s English-language daily, and later a Partner at FGS Global—a leading international strategic communications and public affairs consultancy—where she launched and built the firm’s digital practice in the Middle East.

Her appointment marks a significant step in Kekst CNC’s regional growth strategy. “We are delighted to welcome Luciana to our team,” said Ben Curson, Partner and Head of Middle East at Kekst CNC.

He added that her regional understanding and strategic insight would “considerably strengthen our capabilities in the UAE and beyond” and represent “an important next step in our continued expansion.”

Blackwell expressed her enthusiasm for the new role. She said she looks forward to working with the team to “create value for our clients and drive growth and success in the UAE and wider Middle East market.”

The hire underscores Kekst CNC’s ambition to deepen its UAE presence and expand its offering to regional markets—building on its reputation as a trusted global boutique that consistently delivers high-impact solutions to help leaders and companies navigate complex corporate and financial landscapes.