SEC Newgate EU has announced the promotion of Feriel Saouli as Chief Executive Officer from her current position as Chief Operating Officer, while Victoria Main is beginning a new role as Chief Business Development Officer. Tom Parker will remain Executive Chair and Group Deputy Chief Executive Officer for EMEA.
The appointment of Feriel Saouli, who joined what was then Cambre Associates in 2011 to set up the Association Management practice and became COO in July 2018, reflects a desire for continuity and stability as the company realises its full potential as part of the SEC Newgate group. Feriel will retain her client portfolio and continue to grow the association management practice she launched in 2011.
As Victoria Main steps aside as CEO, she will put her energy into supporting clients, particularly with media and policy communications, as well as exploring new business opportunities across sectors and geographies.
Tom Parker said: “Feriel’s appointment as CEO is a natural continuation in the development of the company. She will bring a depth of expertise, experience and energy, building on the strong platform created under Victoria’s sound stewardship. With Victoria now driving business development, we are blessed to have two of the top women in our profession leading the business. I am very excited about our path forward.”
Feriel Saouli said: “After 11 years with the company, 4 of which managing its operations, I’m both excited and humbled to continue my journey leading SEC Newgate EU and its talented and passionate team through the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. We are very lucky to have Victoria drive our business development efforts.”
Victoria Main said: “I can’t think of any better successor as CEO than Feriel, who is not only a consummate professional with sky-high standards but is also a respected leader who knows our business inside out. I’m thrilled to be able to devote my full attention to my first loves of working with clients and developing new business.”
Founded in 2001 and rebranded as SEC Newgate EU in January 2022, the consultancy has a solid reputation in the sustainability, chemicals, technology and trade sectors and is known for media relations, policy communications, digital communications, advocacy and association management.
About SEC Newgate EU
Previously Cambre Associates, SEC Newgate EU is a Brussels-based advocacy and communications consultancy. We shape policy, mobilise opinion and build reputation. We are curious, agile, caring and fun. We are part of the SEC Newgate group which has a team of 900 staff, working in 45 offices, across five continents.