Allison Worldwide and Stagwell Appoint Margaret Key as CEO for APAC Region, Elevating Strategic Leadership
In a bold move reflecting their commitment to enhancing communication capabilities across Asia Pacific, Allison Worldwide alongside Stagwell has appointed Margaret Key as the new Chief Executive Officer of Allison Asia and as Executive Director for Asia Pacific at Stagwell. The announcement, made on August 22, 2025, marks a significant shift in leadership aimed at driving growth and innovation in a rapidly evolving market.
Margaret Key, who will officially take up her roles on October 1, comes with over 20 years of rich experience in strategic communication roles, particularly within the Asia Pacific region. Her most recent position was the CEO of MSL Group at Publicis, where she successfully transformed a fragmented agency into a unified regional power. This transformation led to substantial business growth and laid the foundation for further expansion in the competitive agency landscape. Key's previous stints at leading firms such as Edelman and Burson-Marsteller further solidify her reputation as a seasoned industry veteran.
Recognized widely for her contributions, Key has garnered several prestigious awards including Campaign Asia’s Women to Watch and was part of the leadership team acknowledged as the APAC Regional Consultancy of the Year. Beyond her professional achievements, she serves on the board of Verité, a global nonprofit dedicated to labor rights, showcasing her commitment to broader societal issues. "Margaret is a proven force in our industry, and her appointment signals an exciting new chapter for our Asia Pacific clients and communications business," stated Ray Day, Executive Chair at Allison Worldwide and Vice Chair at Stagwell. He emphasized that her leadership will be instrumental in achieving the collective goals of both organizations through their world-class teams.
In her new position as CEO at Allison Asia, Key will lead the strategic growth initiatives, focusing on harnessing the strengths of Allison and Stagwell to tap into new business opportunities across the Asia Pacific region. Her role will also involve deepening client relationships while fostering an environment that prioritizes innovative solutions and cultural relevance. "I’m honored to take on these roles at such a pivotal time for both brands," said Key, noting the positive reputations each company holds in the marketing sector. "I look forward to collaborating with our talented teams to accelerate innovation and drive sustained growth for our clients."
Allison Worldwide operates as a global communications agency, committed to enabling growth and positive change for clients through innovative strategies and a forward-thinking approach. As a subsidiary of Stagwell (NASDAQ STGW), Allison leverages a comprehensive range of expertise to deliver results that resonate, marking a significant presence in the marketing and communications sphere. Stagwell itself is recognized as a leading challenger in the market, dedicated to transforming how brands connect through a fusion of creativity and technology. With more than 1,700 clients and specialists across over 45 countries, both organizations are poised for continued growth and excellence in the ever-evolving landscape of global marketing.
Margaret Key's appointment is expected to not only enhance Allison Worldwide's and Stagwell's market position in the APAC region but also align with their overarching mission to deliver impactful results, emphasizing the importance of innovation and strategic communication in today’s digital age. As the marketing landscape continues to evolve, the industry will be watching closely how Key’s visionary approach shapes the future trajectory of both brands in this critical market.