Dubai Lynx names Bechara Mouzannar, former CCO of Publicis Communications MEA and CCO of Leo Burnett MEA, as the Advertising Person of the Year; this is the awards' highest honour designed to celebrate an individual who has made significant contributions to advancing the reputation and profile of the communications industry in the Middle East.
Mouzannar spent 35 years at Leo Burnett, four of which were spent at Publicis Communications. Under his leadership, Leo Burnett and Publicis Groupe were elevated to new heights and the MEA region became recognised as a global creative hub. Praised for his focus on supporting the next era of creative thinkers, Mouzannar paved the way for the next generations of creatives from the Middle East and also gave a voice to Arab and Lebanese communications.
Speaking about the award, Philip Thomas, Chairman of LIONS and Dubai Lynx, said: “Bechara Mouzannar’s dedication to both the region’s communications industry and to developing creativity is evidenced in the 1,000 plus awards he’s received on both the global and regional stages; including three Network of the Year titles for Leo Burnett, and Agency of the Year and Media Agency of the Year titles for Leo Burnett Beirut at Dubai Lynx. We’re delighted to be presenting him with this accolade.”
Mouzannar’s career has seen him work with some of the world’s most recognisable brands. With his flair for engaging storytelling, Mouzannar has helped these brands navigate the evolving digital sphere and connect with their customers. The 36 Lion awards at Cannes Lions, including six Gold Lions, pay testament to Mouzannar’s innovative mind and creative expertise.
Commenting on the announcement, Bechara Mouzannar, said: “It is both an honour and a privilege, for me, to receive this prestigious regional award, given for the very first time to a chief creative officer. I feel blessed to have partnered with several generations of amazing creative and strategic talents, with passionate, determined and inventive people, to achieving results, including all our clients who gave us inspiring brands as an opportunity to building inspiring ideas and entertaining stories, with the ultimate goal of engaging audiences. This award also comes at the very moment where I am starting a new and different venture in the neighbouring entertainment industry. I believe this is where elegant advertising will be heading. I may have missed the dawn, but I have decided to be there for the morning dew.”
The presentation of the Dubai Lynx Advertising Person of the Year Award will take place during the virtual Awards Ceremony on 7 April 2021 at 7:00pm GST.
