The Up&Up Group has prioritized attracting and retaining top talent as a key strategy, marking the appointments of Deborah Whitlock as Marketing Director and Sharleen James as MD of Razor in February. Whitlock was drawn to the Group’s vision for Africa, aiming to unify its agencies with clarity and precision. James, former group MD at Accenture Song, is excited about Razor’s future-focused PR and communications vision.

Dustin Chick, Razor’s former MD and Co-Founder, steps into the role of Chief Executive. The appointments coincide with M&C Saatchi Abel’s expansion, having added over 40 staff following its win of MTN, Africa’s largest mobile network operator.

CEO Jacques Burger emphasizes the Group’s belief that “the people with the best people win” and stresses that retaining talent is just as crucial as attracting it. Chief Diversity Officer Makosha Maja-Rasethaba, who has been with the business for 13 years, now also serves as Chief Strategy Officer at M&C Saatchi Abel. Burger highlights the Group’s commitment to building a diverse, specialized talent pool to serve its growing pan-African clientele.