Emeka Obia assumes new role as Integrated Strategy Director at Publicis Groupe, Central and West Africa

By Zion Rufus

Publicis Groupe, the renowned French multinational advertising and public relations company, has named Emeka Obia as an Integrated Strategy Director , Central and West Africa region.

In his new capacity, Emeka will spearhead growth initiatives for Publicis Groupe’s clients across 22 diverse markets in the region.

Emeka Obia’s journey to this significant role showcases a remarkable trajectory of expertise and strategic prowess.

Having built a robust reputation within the industry, his professional journey has now led him to this critical juncture.

Prior to this appointment, Obia served as the Head of Strategy and Planning at Insight Redefini, Nigeria, an affiliate of Publicis Groupe.

In that role, he skillfully steered the strategy and planning function across the Group, supervising entities like Insight Publicis, Leo Burnett, Starcom Media Perspectives, and All Seasons Zenith.

Also widely acknowledged as an award-winning integrated strategist, his exceptional track record is punctuated by his adeptness at tackling intricate business challenges. He has consistently pioneered purpose-driven campaigns, transformative platforms, and immersive experiences that ingeniously embed brands into cultural contexts. His strategic acumen is built upon a firm foundation in brand strategy, storytelling, and an astute grasp of digital innovation and content planning.

Obia’s distinctive approach to strategy is characterized by his dedication to crafting human-centric experiences that deeply resonate with diverse audiences.

Having worked across various respected creative agencies, Emeka Obia has crafted purpose-driven campaigns that seamlessly integrate brands into culture. From industry giants to ambitious challengers, his portfolio encompasses brands in FMCG, Banking, Insurance, Tobacco, Healthcare, and Non-profit sectors. Brands such as MTN, Stanbic IBTC, Heineken, Nivea, Philip Morris, Amstel Malta, Lipton, Mondelez, Leadway Assurance, World Bank IFC, and Ford Foundation have all benefited from his strategic insights.

Emeka Obia’s proficiency in strategic and applied innovation, trend analysis and forecasting, advertising, and digital planning has solidified his status as a thought leader. His unique ability to decipher pop culture and understand the evolving dynamics of human behavior further enriches his strategic approach. Named the number 1 African trend spotter by leading global consumer trend firm Trendwatching in 2018, Emeka’s reputation as a “human-Swiss pocket knife” continues to resonate within the industry.

His reputation also extends beyond his professional achievements. As a faculty member at the Executive Programme in Advertising (EXPAD), School of Media and Communication, Pan Atlantic University, Emeka imparts contemporary advertising operations and best practices to aspiring industry leaders. His mentorship extends globally, encompassing institutions such as Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences in the Netherlands and the African Leadership University in Mauritius.