BRUSSELS--Ogilvy PR has brought in new leadership in Brussels following Jeff Chertack's move to oversee Qatar.

The firm has hired Brussels veteran and Pride\TBWA founder Ann Maes to head a Belgium operation that has returned to profitability under Chertack's leadership, thanks in part to a burgeoning EU practice.

Earlier this year, Chertack relocated from Belgium to Qatar to head Memac Ogilvy PR's new operation in that country and take on the role of Middle East and North Africa corporate practice head. 

Maes rejoins Ogilvy PR after leaving the firm 12 years ago. She worked as a director at Leads United before founding and spending almost a decade at Pride\TBWA, where she focused on integrated communications, change management and reputation counselling.

Ogilvy PR EAME CEO Stuart Smith told the Holmes Report that Maes' entrepreneurial background and broad range of experience will help the Belgian operation continue to grow.

"She is someone who understands integration but also understands corporate and public affairs," said Smith. "She understands Belgium but also Brussels."

In the Middle East, meanwhile, Chertack joins an operation that has seen significant growth over the past 12 months, as demonstrated by its selection to handle global comms duties for Qatari chemical giant Muntajat.

Chertack's arrival follows the hires of Mark Jackson as Memac Ogilvy PR technology head and Ema Linaker to lead consumer and social. He reports to Memac Ogilvy PR director Saada Hammad.