In this week's episode of The Edge of Influence, host Iman Issa, Co-Founder & Managing Partner of North Seventy Five, is joined by Roy Aftimos, CEO of C2 Communications, and David Fox, Senior Advisor and former CEO of Ogilvy in the region, to explore how work really gets done in MENA - through trust, deep client relationships and great craft.

The conversation moves from navigating procurement and aligning on shared objectives, to shifting the conversation from "hours and deliverables" to genuine value, to what builds rich, lasting client partnerships.

David and Roy also make a passionate case for agencies to own their distinct point of view, rediscover the art of selling big ideas, and above all, be proud enough to put their work out there.

Production Credits:

Presented by: Iman Issa
Editor: Ian Carless
Executive Producers: Iman Issa & Ian Carless
Produced by: North Seventy Five & Poddworx Dubai

The Edge of Influence is a new podcast from the Alliance of Independent Agencies (MENA) and North Seventy Five, bringing together different voices and perspectives to surface the real challenges and opportunities facing the region's agency industry and to advocate for positive change and real dialogue.

In this first episode, host Iman Issa, Co-Founder & Managing Partner of North Seventy Five, is joined by Clive Michon, Founder Director at Alliance of Independent Agencies and Nick Walsh, CEO Migrate & Founding Regional Partner, Alliance of Independent Agencies Middle East, to explore the rise of independent agencies and "the missing middle.”

Together they discuss why independents are gaining ground, how collaborative agency ecosystems are winning integrated pitches, what network mergers mean for talent, and the case for industry standards. A conversation about giving independents visibility, a voice, and collective momentum so talent, clients and agencies can all thrive.

Production Credits:

Presented by: Iman Issa
Editor: Ian Carless
Executive Producers: Iman Issa & Ian Carless
Produced by: North Seventy Five & Poddworx Dubai