Qatar Foundation

Ogilvy’s New York office is handling a US PR effort to promote the Qatar Foundation, the nonprofit involved in education, science/research and community development.

Co-founded by Qatar’s leader Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani and Princess Sheikha Moza Bint Nasser, the Foundation’s mission is to position the Arab state as “a nation that can be a vanguard for productive change in the region and a role model for the broader international community,” according to Ogilvy’s federal filing.

Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates and Egypt erected an economic blockade of Qatar more than a year ago for its alleged support of terrorism and close ties with Iran.

Qatar-based Memac Ogilvy and Mather engaged the NY outpost for the Foundation's communications effort.

Jennifer Risi, chief communications officer and worldwide managing director-media influence, heads Ogilvy’s New York team with assistance from Corey Chambliss and Kathleen Treganowan.

Ogilvy’s Qatari affiliate signed a three-year contract (with an option for a fourth year) with the Foundation in 2017 for a "PR strategy focused on media relations, placement in external conferences and events, and strategic brand alliances."

In June, Ogilvy Government Relations (Washington) signed a subcontractor agreement with Nelson, Mullins, Riley & Scarborough to provide DC outreach to policymakers for the Government of Qatar.

Ogilvy is to receive a monthly $10K retainer through May 31, 2019, for that effort.