SEC Newgate Names John Hobday to Lead Its Middle East Operations

SEC Newgate, a global insight, communications and advocacy group, has appointed John Hobday as CEO of SEC Newgate Middle East, overseeing its operations in Dubai and Riyadh.

Hobday succeeds Elena Gramatica, the company’s former CEO and founding partner, who is moving to the US for family reasons.

He brings more than 25 years of experience in financial communications and corporate affairs, advising global corporations, Middle East institutions, investors and key regional stakeholders across all GCC markets.

Before joining SEC Newgate, Hobday spent seven years as a partner at FGS Global’s Dubai office, where he was responsible for developing the regional business, with a particular focus on its capital markets practice.

SEC Newgate Strengthens Its Middle East Leadership

Commenting on the appointment, Fiorenzo Tagliabue, CEO of SEC Newgate, said the Middle East remains one of the group’s key strategic priorities, driven by increasing demand for strategic advice, particularly in corporate affairs.

He highlighted Hobday’s experience working with international brands, understanding of the regional business environment and extensive network of relationships with key stakeholders and influencers.

Tagliabue added that Hobday’s leadership would help the group’s teams in the UAE and Saudi Arabia address challenges across reputation management, investment promotion and business positioning. He also acknowledged Elena Gramatica’s leadership and contribution to establishing the business in 2021.

John Hobday’s Experience Across Financial Communications

Hobday began his career in London before moving to Dubai in 2003 to establish Citigate Middle East, the first specialist financial and corporate communications business to set up in the GCC.

Citigate Middle East was acquired by Financial Dynamics in 2006, which was subsequently acquired by FTI Consulting later that year. Hobday continued to lead FTI’s Middle East operations as Senior Managing Director until his departure in 2017.

Speaking about his appointment, Hobday said SEC Newgate is a significant and growing player in corporate affairs and strategic communications globally. He described joining the business as its Middle East CEO as a privilege and highlighted the reputation of its regional team for strategic insight, sound counsel and execution.

Focus on Regional Growth and New Sectors

SEC Newgate Middle East works with several large multinational companies and local institutions, with specialist capabilities across the luxury, art and culture sectors.

In his new role, Hobday will focus on business growth and expanding the agency’s sector expertise into new markets. Strengthening integration with the group’s international offering will also be a priority.

The expanded approach will bring together financial communications, corporate diplomacy, crisis management and institutional relations advisory services across Middle East markets. It will also support international investment projects in the Gulf.

Sebastian Hejnowski, Head of Eastern EMEA at SEC Newgate, said the group’s commitment to the Middle East is long-term and ambitious. He emphasised plans to continue investing in people, capabilities and regional presence, while making the Middle East an increasingly important part of the group’s global offering.

Hobday’s appointment marks the next phase of SEC Newgate’s regional growth strategy, with a focus on strengthening its presence in Dubai and Riyadh and expanding its corporate affairs and strategic communications capabilities across the region.