Rifaie confirmed the news and said he has resigned because he wants to take a break.
“I have been attached to the industry for the last 25 years and wanted to take some time off. I would definitely continue to be a part of this industry but I will not be heading an agency.”
“I have been attached to the industry for the last 25 years and wanted to take some time off. I would definitely continue to be a part of this industry but I will not be heading an agency.”
Prior to joining Publicis, Rifaie was the CEO of Bates Malaysia for four years. He also worked with McCann Erickson for 12 years where he rose from the position of account director to group account director.
Publicis’ Asia-Pacific CEO Matthew Godfrey said, “I have worked with Shukri for over eight years. In 2009 he wants to do fresh things in life and while Publicis regrets his decision we totally understand and support his personal goals. On behalf of Publicis I want to thank him for his many contributions to our brand in Malaysia.”
Godfrey said that Publicis will be making an announcement on a replacement in January and Shukri will continue to lead the agency until that replacement is in place.
