We are delighted to bring you a Member Interview with Menna Zaki, Global Communications & Brand Strategy Executive, Ex-PepsiCo
What’s your golden rule?
Growth comes from embracing change, trusting your instincts, and staying adaptable
Who has been your biggest influence?
My biggest influence has been my father. He was a self-made businessman who built something meaningful from humble beginnings, and he did it with integrity, resilience, and heart.
As a leader, he inspired those around him—not through authority, but through empathy. His door was always open, and people turned to him not just for decisions, but for guidance. As a father, he gave unconditional love and instilled in us the importance of staying grounded, curious, and kind.
Though he’s no longer with us, his legacy continues to guide me. He never stopped learning, evolving, or giving—and that mindset of growth and generosity is something I carry with me every day, both personally and professionally.
What is your most hated business expression?
"Corporate politics." It tends to get in the way of real progress. I believe in open conversations, clear decisions, and people being recognized for the value they bring—not for how well they navigate internal dynamics.
What’s the smartest business idea you’ve ever had?
One of the smartest business ideas I’ve had was during my time at PepsiCo, when we reimagined our global sponsorship platforms—like UEFA and Expo 2020—not just as branding opportunities but as storytelling engines that connected with local culture and consumer passion points across diverse markets.
Instead of running generic global campaigns, we built modular content frameworks that could flex to regional insights—allowing markets to plug into a unified brand story while tailoring it to their own audience. This approach dramatically increased engagement, earned media value, and brand affinity across 120+ markets.
It taught me that the smartest ideas often come from rethinking what already exists—unlocking more impact by aligning creativity, cultural relevance, and strategic consistency.
Which leader do you admire most and why?
Niven Al-Khoury my first manager, mentor, and role model.
Almost 18 years ago, I was a sales specialist when she saw something in me that I hadn’t yet seen in myself. When she moved to another company, she asked me to join her—not in sales, but in communications. At the time, communication wasn’t even a recognized industry, and shifting from engineering to communications was a leap of faith. But I trusted her instinct.
That decision changed my life!
She knew—long before I did—that I would thrive in this field. Because of her, I’ve spent the past years building a career in global communications and brand management.
We only worked together for a few years, but her impact lasts a lifetime. That’s leadership. That’s the power of women who uplift, mentor, and empower others.
What is on your mind the most right now as a marketing leader?
Navigating a career transition with intention. I see this moment not as a pause, but as a reset—an opportunity to evolve myself as a leader. In the pace of corporate life, we often get so caught up in delivery that we miss the chance to reflect, learn, and expand our thinking. I’m using this time to step into unfamiliar rooms, ask new questions, listen deeply, and connect with diverse perspectives. It’s about fuelling my energy, strengthening my focus, and returning with greater clarity and purpose.
Why is being part of The Marketing Society important for your career?
Being part of The Marketing Society offers a unique space to connect with bold thinkers, challenge conventional ideas, and stay inspired by the ever-evolving marketing landscape. It’s not just about networking—it’s about growing as a leader through shared experiences, honest conversations, and continuous learning.
At this stage of my career, I’m looking to gain fresh perspectives, exchange ideas with peers across industries, and stay ahead of the shifts shaping our field. I see it as a space to both contribute and be challenged—so I can keep evolving and lead with greater impact.
Why does marketing matter to you?
To be honest, marketing wasn’t the path I set out on during university—I began my career as a biomedical engineer. But over the past 18 years, I’ve chosen marketing with intention, and it’s been one of the most rewarding shifts in my life.
What draws me to marketing is its ability to connect deeply with people. I love the process of listening to consumers, understanding their needs, and shaping strategies that truly resonate. For me, marketing is more than selling—it’s about telling stories that matter, driving purpose-led impact, and building campaigns that can shift perceptions, inspire action, and contribute to communities. From crafting brand narratives to leading global partnerships that tap into passion points and culture, marketing continues to challenge and energize me every day.
Tell us something that’s not on your CV
Outside of work, I am a proud mother of two daughters. An adventurer at heart, a certified skipper and diver who finds peace by the sea and joy in sports fishing.
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