PizzaExpress UAE has announced the appointment of Michael John Abong as Head of Brand and Marketing. Bringing over 15 years of experience across hospitality, travel and digital marketing in the UAE, Abong will oversee brand strategy, integrated campaigns, partnerships and marketing operations across the brand’s 10 restaurants in the country. He will also contribute to regional franchise marketing initiatives while collaborating closely with the PizzaExpress UK team to maintain brand consistency and alignment.
Commenting on the appointment, Abong said, “Hospitality today is about innovation that feels local and customer-first. My focus is on evolving the PizzaExpress brand in the UAE through meaningful storytelling, strong partnerships, and experiences that reflect how people dine and connect here.”
Abong joins with extensive experience in premium hospitality and experience-led marketing, having previously worked with globally recognised brands such as Palazzo Versace Dubai, SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences and Hotel Indigo Dubai Downtown, where he contributed to the hotel’s pre-opening marketing efforts.
Prashanth Menon, PizzaExpress UAE Regional Director, said, “Michael is set to spearhead a bold new chapter for PizzaExpress UAE, driving brand evolution, deepening localisation for the UAE and MENA region, and delivering innovation-led campaigns that will fuel the brand’s accelerated growth.”
His career also includes roles across travel and digital sectors at Seera Group and ME Digital Group. Known for blending brand storytelling with performance marketing, Abong has delivered measurable impact through digital optimisation initiatives that enhanced customer journeys and improved conversion performance. He has also led and mentored marketing teams across multiple hospitality portfolios, delivering agile and insight-driven campaigns aligned with business goals.
Read more: Carla Hage Joins OMD MENA As Senior Media Planner For Qiddiya Account
