Havas Play SG names Kenny Yap CEO, Russell Lai exits media arm

Havas Media Network Singapore has made anticipated changes to its senior leadership team, aiming to propel growth and refine its market offerings. Effective immediately, Kenny Yap (pictured left) has been promoted to chief executive officer of Havas Play Singapore.

In his expanded role, Yap will spearhead Havas Play's strategic growth and presence in Singapore and across Southeast Asia. Yap was previously chief operating officer of Havas Play where he was tasked to spearhead the development and implementation of strategic initiatives and partnerships. His role aimed at fostering continued growth and innovation in the region, in addition to his commercial and operational responsibilities.

Don't miss: Havas, Moonfolks join forces to drive integrated marketing in Indonesia 

Prior to which Yap was Havas Play's managing director for over six years where he drove integrated solutions comprising PR, social media and performance marketing, content marketing and influencer marketing for the group. Before his stint at Havas, Yap was a director at Hill+Knowlton Strategies and general manager at Vibes Communications. According to his LinkedIn, he started his career as a senior account manager to Grayling. 

In addition, Russell Lai (pictured right) will be moving on from his role at Havas Media Singapore. As a valued member of the leadership team, Lai has played a pivotal role in guiding the business through a period of transformation and growth. Prior to his 10 years at Havas, Lai took on roles at IPG Mediabrands, Zenith and PHD. 

In tandem, Louise Koh will be taking on the role of managing director, Havas Media Singapore while Deanson Lee has been elevated to managing director, digital. Before her promotion, Koh was a general manager and executive director at the agency. Her previous roles include account director at IPG and an associate director MEC. 

Meanwhile, Lee was previously head of digital, Havas Group Singapore. Throughout his career, Lee took on various roles at Havas such as executive director, digital strategy and client solutions, digital director, associate digital director and senior digital director. Other roles he's taken on include digital and media manager at Nestlé and digital consultant, SEA at Ebiquity. 

In their new roles, Koh and Lee will focus on strengthening client relationships and driving business growth across both Havas Media and Arena Media. 

“These promotions reflect our commitment to nurturing talent and building a strong leadership team for the future. Yap, Koh and Lee have been instrumental in our success, demonstrating expertise, vision, and an unwavering drive to push boundaries. I have no doubt that under their leadership, our agencies will continue to thrive and set new benchmarks in the industry," said Pankaj Nayak, CEO of Havas Media Network Singapore and president, SEA - Havas Media. 

“I would also like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Lai for his contributions to the agency. His leadership and dedication have been instrumental to our progress, and we wish him the very best for his future endeavours," said Nayak. These leadership transitions mark a new chapter for Havas Media Network Singapore as it continues to evolve, innovate, and deliver meaningful impact in a dynamic market. 

Meanwhile, in Indonesia, Havas has formed a strategic alliance with Indonesian independent agency Moonfolks. This alliance marks a significant move to bolster its footprint in Southeast Asia. The partnership, operating under the newly formed entity Havas Moonfolks, will merge Havas' media expertise with Moonfolks' strengths in digital and integrated marketing, offering brands a comprehensive approach to advertising and brand strategy in Indonesia.

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