Moe Akkawi

Communications Specialist | Storyteller

Oakville, Ontario, Canada

About

I am a Canadian Permanent Resident with over ten years of experience in the PR agency sector in the GCC and Middle East. Specializing in media relations, crisis management, and strategic communications, my primary focus is on sports PR. I have successfully managed campaigns for global sports brands such as FIFA, NBA, ATP, UFC, and F1. In addition to sports, I have been involved in diverse campaigns, ranging from high-profile lifestyle events with renowned artists to working with business and technology clients. Furthermore, I contribute as a content writer for English media outlets in the Middle East, broadening my influence in the industry.

Experience

  • IABC/Toronto (1 yr 5 mos)
    • Vice President, Professional Development & Networking
      Jul 2025 - Jun 2026 · 1 yr

      As Vice President, Professional Development & Networking with IABC/Toronto, I lead the end-to-end planning and execution of professional development, networking, and region-based events that deliver strong value to our members. This includes managing event budgets, securing speakers, handling venue and catering logistics, and creating promotional content in collaboration with the Communications team. I also oversee the annual Agency Fair, connecting emerging communicators with leading agencies across the GTA. Post-event, I analyse attendee feedback to enhance future experiences and ensure all events are captured across IABC/Toronto’s social channels. Additionally, I manage and mentor a team of volunteers, supporting their personal and professional growth while ensuring clear communication and delivery of event goals.

    • Vice President, OVATION Awards – Board of Directors
      Feb 2025 - Jun 2025 · 5 mos

      As VP of the 40th Annual IABC/Toronto OVATION Awards, I lead the delivery and promotion of the chapter’s flagship awards program celebrating communications excellence. I liaise with the awards agency on entry logistics, award-winning announcements, and ticketing, while driving engagement and participation across the industry. My role spans social media and PR planning, website updates, digital content ideas, venue coordination, and sponsor support—working closely with fellow board members and volunteers to ensure a seamless and impactful experience.

  • Action Global Communications (11 yrs 5 mos)
    • Associate Account Director – Media Relations and Sport
      Mar 2022 - Jun 2025 · 3 yrs 4 mos

      • Offer strategic PR guidance aligned with clients' business goals. • Strategically allocate budget resources for optimal PR impact. • Oversee media strategies for message placement in line with clients’ objectives. • Craft compelling business proposals to attract and secure new clients.

    • Senior Communications Manager
      Feb 2020 - Mar 2022 · 2 yrs 2 mos

      • Create PR plans in line with client’s key objectives and deliverables. • Implement crisis management media plans for clients in emergencies. • Create content in English, covering press releases, Q&A, articles, speeches, key messaging and factsheets. • Organize press conferences, exhibitions, workshops, roundtables, and launch events.

    • PR Account Manager
      May 2015 - Jan 2020 · 4 yrs 9 mos

      • Liaise with clients to ensure objectives and delivery. • Foster ongoing relationships with English and Arabic press for key client coverage. • Coordinate with influencers for brand visibility through barter agreements and analyze social media coverage. • Review coverage reports to ensure the attainment of clients’ KPIs.

  • Mojo Group Dubai (2 yrs 1 mo)
    • PR Account Executive
      Jan 2013 - Jan 2014 · 1 yr 1 mo

      • Pitch clients’ stories to various media outlets to ensure coverage. • Monitor media coverage across key target markets. • Secure and liaise interviews for clients’ spokespersons with targeted media. • Create a Work in Progress Report and ensure it's up to date.

    • PR Coordinator
      Jan 2012 - Jan 2013 · 1 yr 1 mo

      • Monitor media coverage across key target markets. • Create a Work in Progress Report and ensure it's up-to-date.

  • Head of International Purchase Department at Arison
    Oct 2010 - Oct 2011 · 1 yr 1 mo

  • Internship at Byblos Bank
    Jul 2010 - Sep 2010 · 3 mos

    Consumer Asset Banking(CAB) Teller Trade Finance Operation(TFO)