Elie Khouri’s Leadership Redefines Advertising Standards in the Middle East

Elie Khouri, Chairman of Omnicom Media Group MENA, is a force behind the media and advertising industry, changing the narrative of the region through innovation and inclusivity. With over a decade of leadership at one of the world’s most influential advertising networks, Khouri has steered Omnicom to deliver groundbreaking solutions for global and local brands. Beyond his role as an entrepreneurial visionary, Elie is an active diversity champion and currently leads on various initiatives that challenge the status quo, such as the Unstereotype Alliance to change representation in media.

Elie Khouri founded Omnicom Media Group MENA in 2006 and swiftly made a reputation as an agent for change as he assumed the CEO position. As at June 2019, such achievements promoted him to the chairman of the region, broadening his reach considerably. As Chairman, Khouri oversees a portfolio of high-profile subsidiaries and sub-brands, OMD, PHD, Hearts & Science, and Resolution to name a few. These brands together serve some of the world’s largest companies, setting benchmarks in terms of media strategy and advertising execution. Omnicom has become synonymous under Khouri with innovation, client success, and responsible advertising in MENA, having its local headquarters in the UAE as a central hub for regional operations.

Elie Khouri has also left his mark outside of corporate wins. In 2020, he co-founded the Unstereotype Alliance’s UAE National Chapter. The worldwide initiative is backed by key industry players such as Facebook, Google, LinkedIn, and Unilever to eradicate gender bias in media and advertising. Khouri has championed a more inclusive and representative media landscape across the Middle East by promoting non-traditional portrayals of women and men. This alliance makes Khouri emphasize his belief in the media as a powerful instrument in shaping societal norms. His efforts have contributed to the elevation of conversations about diversity, equality, and inclusion in the region. In this way, he brings Omnicom closer to broader social progress.

Elie Khouri has changed the way businesses approach media planning and advertising in the Middle East with his strategic thinking. He has positioned Omnicom as a leader in innovative solutions by focusing on data-driven insights and digital transformation. The group is focused on integrated campaigns, consumer-centric strategies, and cutting-edge technology, keeping the clients ahead in an ever-changing market.

Khouri has also helped in extending the scope of Omnicom and helped the company reach the niche cultural and economic specifics of more than 15 countries of the MENA region. In doing so, this strategy allowed the group to work on some strategies tailored for the specific audiences, yet adhering to international standards.

Khouri promotes sustainability in media practices. Under his leadership, Omnicom has embraced initiatives that balance commercial goals with ethical values, which are a testament to long-term impact. The group’s partnerships with NGOs and local governments are good examples of its commitment to tackling pressing social issues through responsible advertising.

Elie Khouri’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. He is widely recognized as a trailblazer in the media industry, earning accolades for his innovative leadership and advocacy for change. His influence extends beyond Omnicom, shaping industry standards and inspiring future leaders in media and advertising.