IMI, a globally operating, privately owned media group headquartered in the UAE, has announced the appointment of Mona Elsaka as its new Chief Brand, Marketing and Communications Officer. In this role, Elsaka will lead the group’s brand, marketing, communications, and creative functions, driving a cohesive strategy to strengthen IMI’s presence and influence across global markets.
An accomplished and award-winning brand and marketing leader, Elsaka brings extensive international experience gained from senior leadership roles at Fortune 100 and Fortune 500 organisations, including PepsiCo and, most recently, Mastercard. Her career also includes early work with the United Nations, where she developed a strong purpose-led approach that continues to inform her leadership in the corporate sector.
During her tenure at PepsiCo, Elsaka spearheaded the company’s Premier Partnership with Expo 2020 Dubai, a high-profile, multi-award-winning initiative that celebrated innovation, sustainability, and cultural exchange on a global stage.
She later joined Mastercard’s global sponsorships and partnerships division, where she managed and grew some of the world’s most prestigious properties. Her portfolio included the UEFA Champions League, Formula 1, the Cannes Film Festival, The BRIT Awards, The Open Championship, and other leading global cultural and entertainment platforms.
Widely recognised for building and evolving iconic brands, Elsaka has a strong reputation for delivering transformative growth, creating partnerships that shape culture, and aligning brand strategy with sports, entertainment, innovation, and purpose. She has also led high-performing international teams and worked closely with C-suite executives and global stakeholders to deliver impact at scale.
Commenting on her appointment, Elsaka said, “I am honoured to join IMI as Chief Brand, Marketing and Communications Officer, a group known for its commitment to impactful, credible storytelling.”
She added, “I look forward to working with our talented team and partners to further strengthen IMI and its portfolio of brands, including IMI Ventures, RedBird IMI, and its strategic investment in MARI, to create lasting impact and drive strategic leadership across the media, sports and entertainment ecosystem.”
Through this appointment, IMI aims to further elevate its brand architecture and storytelling capabilities, reinforcing its position across media, sports, and entertainment globally.
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