KUALA LUMPUR – The Association of Accredited Advertising Agents of Malaysia (4As) has appointed advertising industry advocate Khairudin Rahim as its CEO effective 1 July.
Khairudin, in the newly created role as CEO, is tasked with developing the strategy and long term plan for the 4As to remain relevant in the changing advertising industry landscape. His remit also includes rebuilding the 4As value and forging local and international partnerships with the end-goal of creating a future generation of professionals.
The CEO position effectively replaces the Executive Director’s position, previously held by the outgoing Kenneth Wong.
“It’s rare to find industry veterans like Kenneth whose vast experience and contributions during his tenure were immeasurable,” says Dato Johnny Mun, 4As President. “We are fortunate to have Khairudin continue the legacy and serve the industry to help drive its ambitions and vision for the future development of the creative industry.”
Khairudin started his career with McCann-Erickson in 1975 before moving to Lowe (previously known as Lintas) where he spent more than 30 years building brands. His career included postings to Sydney and Manila. His last position was as Chairman, Lowe Malaysia.
“My primary role is to provide the vision, strategy and support on matters relating to governance, objectives, programmes, services, and operations of the 4As,” notes Khairudin. “While the President is responsible for the overall formation of plans and programmes with the aim of enriching the 4As members, my job is to ensure that this vision materialises to directly benefit the members and their professional well-being and profitability.”
The 4As, founded in 1971, represents advertising agencies in the marketing communications industry to advertisers, media, Government, and the public. More than 100 home-grown and international agencies are members in the association.
Apart from growing the members’ business and nurturing individual careers through the provision of professional development courses, industry awards, advocacy and support, the 4As also seeks to conceptualise the association’s entry into new areas of endeavour and revenue streams.
Khairudin served on the Board of Governors for the annual Putra Brand Awards and Malaysia’s Most Valuable Brands organised by the 4As. He was also a Jury Leader for the Effie Awards. Khairudin was the originator and prime mover of the Mandatory Pitch Fees for which he drafted and finalised the rationale, by-laws, and advisory letters to advertisers for the 4As Council’s adoption and final approval by then President Tan Sri Vincent Lee.
He was bestowed the Chairman’s Award by the 4As for his cumulative contributions and influence in shaping the Malaysian advertising industry. Khairudin is a graduate from the Mara Institute of Technology and the Chartered Institute of Marketing (UK).
