UM Malaysia names Sue-Anne Lim as new CEO

IPG Mediabrands has named Sue-Anne Lim as its new CEO of Universal McCann (UM) in Malaysia. Her appointment is effective from 1 January next year. 

Lim enters the role with a total of 20 years of experience in designing growth strategies for business and brand transformation, having worked with established MNC and GLC brands, with experience spanning multiple verticals.

Most recently, she was chief executive officer at Trapper, driving media growth in the industry for about three years. Prior to that, she helmed the role of managing director at global strategy consultancy Clear KL from 2020 to 2021. She has also helmed leadership roles in companies such as Dentsu Aegis Network, McCann Worldgroup and more.

Lim also 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.

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"Lim 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," said Bala Pomaleh, chief executive officer of IPG Mediabrands Malaysia. "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,” he added. 

"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," said Lim. 

She added in a statement that it is crucial for the agency 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. "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,” she said. 

Kasper Aakerlund, president of UM APAC added that he was pleased to welcome Lim to the UM network and that 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,” he said. 

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