LONDON, 7 MAY – Edelman today announced a leadership transition across its EMEA business, with Julian Payne appointed CEO, EMEA, and Justin Westcott appointed CEO, Middle East, in addition to his role as EMEA Chief Operating Officer.
Arent Jan (AJ) Hesselink, who currently holds the role, will step down after a decade at the firm. He will remain with Edelman until June 1 to support the transition.
Hesselink has played a central role in shaping Edelman’s EMEA business, having previously served as General Manager of Amsterdam and EMEA COO before becoming CEO in 2023. During his tenure, the region delivered sustained growth, strengthened its client portfolio, and evolved its operating model to better serve clients in an increasingly complex global environment.
Ed Williams, President, International, Edelman, said: “AJ has made an outstanding contribution to Edelman over the past ten years. He has helped build a more integrated, resilient and high-performing EMEA business, and has led the region through a period of extraordinary complexity with clarity and determination. Just as importantly, he has built a strong leadership team and a culture that reflects the very best of our firm. We are grateful for everything he has done and wish him every success in what comes next.”
Julian Payne will assume the role of CEO, EMEA, alongside his current responsibilities as Global Chair, Crisis & Risk. During the period of transition, he will continue in his role as UK CEO. Payne joined Edelman in 2021 and has held senior leadership roles across corporate affairs and crisis advisory including as Chair of Corporate Affairs for EMEA. He brings more than 30 years of experience across agency and in-house roles, including senior positions at the BBC, Burberry, and Sky, as well as serving as Communications Secretary to The King and Queen in their roles as Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall.
Williams added: “Julian is a highly experienced leader with deep expertise in reputation, corporate affairs and leadership communications. Since taking on leadership of our UK business, he has been focused on driving growth through diversification of our capabilities into sectors like sport and luxury, while deepening expertise and integration across the market. He has also had a significant impact on our broader business, strengthening our corporate offering and advising clients through complex, high-stakes situations. He brings sound judgement, strong client instincts and a clear sense of where our industry is heading. I am confident he will build on the strong foundation in EMEA and lead the region into its next phase.”
Justin Westcott will take on the additional role of CEO, Middle East, while continuing as EMEA COO. A long-standing Edelman leader, Westcott has held a number of senior roles across the firm, including Global Chair, Technology, UK COO, and previously served in the Middle East, where he also led the Dubai office.
His expanded remit reflects the strategic importance of the Middle East as a growth market for Edelman, as well as his experience in driving operational excellence and transformation across the region.
Williams continued: “Justin’s appointment reflects both the importance of the Middle East to Edelman’s future growth and the strength of his leadership across the region. He combines deep regional knowledge with operational and technological expertise and has a proven ability to drive transformation and build high-performing teams. He will play a critical role in accelerating our growth in this important area of the world.”
Julian Payne said: “It’s a privilege to take on the role of CEO for EMEA at such a dynamic moment for our business and our industry. We are operating in a more complex environment than ever before, geopolitically, technologically and socially, and our clients need clear, integrated and forward-looking counsel. Edelman has exceptional talent across the region, and I’m excited to work with our teams to build on our momentum, deepen our capabilities and continue delivering for our clients. It really is a fantastic time to be in communications.”
Justin Westcott added: “The Middle East represents a significant opportunity for Edelman, with ambitious clients and rapidly evolving markets. Having worked in the region earlier in my career, I’ve seen first-hand its pace of growth and potential. I’m looking forward to working with our teams to continue building a business that brings together our full range of capabilities to deliver impact for clients across the region.”
As Edelman strengthens its position as a leading communications agency across brand and corporate, these appointments reflect the depth of senior talent across the firm and their ability to lead seamlessly across disciplines. They also demonstrate how Edelman is evolving its leadership model to combine market leadership, specialist expertise, and operational excellence in service of clients and future growth.