Introduction
In today’s digital-first economy, search is more than just visibility; it is the foundation of sustainable growth, brand credibility, and customer acquisition. The “Top 100 Search Stars – APAC & MENA Edition: Honouring Excellence in Organic Growth” editorial recognises a distinguished group of SEO professionals who are shaping how brands are discovered, experienced, and trusted online. While the APAC and MENA regions are vast and diverse, this edition brings together standout leaders from key markets, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, and Indonesia, each contributing uniquely to the evolving search landscape.

From driving technical excellence and content innovation to building scalable organic strategies, these individuals represent the forefront of modern SEO. Their work goes beyond rankings, focusing on meaningful impact, measurable growth, and long-term value creation. As search continues to evolve with changing algorithms and user behaviour, these leaders are not just adapting but actively defining the future of organic growth in their respective markets.

Tom Koh, CEO, MediaOne Business Group: A veteran digital strategist with over two decades of experience driving data-led marketing and SEO innovation. Has transformed MediaOne into a leading consultancy serving global brands and government organisations. Combines machine learning with digital strategy to deliver large-scale growth and performance outcomes.

Veronica Lim, CEO, CEO Solutions Pte Ltd: An accomplished SEO expert and entrepreneur with over 20 years of marketing experience across APAC. Known for helping businesses achieve exponential growth in traffic and revenue through organic search strategies. Brings strong leadership across B2B, B2C, and B2G marketing with a results-driven approach.

Ariff Kamal, Global Head of SEO, Standard Chartered: A highly experienced SEO leader with a strong presence across APAC markets, driving enterprise-level organic strategies. Has worked with global brands and trained thousands of professionals in digital marketing. Known for combining data-driven insights with strategic execution. Plays a key role in advancing SEO education and industry development.

Dina Okeil Taha, Regional SEO Manager, YallaMotor: A highly accomplished SEO strategist with over 12 years of experience, Dina specializes in driving organic growth and revenue across GCC, African, and international markets. Her expertise spans technical SEO, ASO, and conversion optimization, backed by strong marketing leadership. As a global awards judge and consultant, she brings both strategic vision and industry influence.

Laurence Mollard, Senior SEO & ASO Manager, Careem: A product-led growth expert with over 15 years of experience, Laurence specializes in scaling organic acquisition across global marketplaces. He has led SEO and ASO strategies for major platforms across MENA, Africa, and Europe. His strength lies in integrating SEO within product ecosystems to drive sustainable growth and user acquisition.

Gurdeep S Matharu, Managing Partner, Search+ – MENA, Assembly Global: A veteran SEO leader with over two decades of experience, Gurdeep is at the forefront of AI-powered search innovation and generative engine optimization. Having held senior roles across WPP, Omnicom, and Mindshare, he brings deep expertise in scaling search strategies across MENA. His leadership continues to shape the future of search through AI, data, and advanced content strategies.

Inait Ullah, Head of Digital, Prism Digital: A performance-driven digital leader with over 15 years of experience, Inait specializes in 360° marketing strategies across SEO, SEM, and multi-channel campaigns. He has successfully managed high-budget campaigns and delivered measurable ROI for leading global brands. His expertise in data-driven decision-making and growth marketing continues to drive impactful digital transformations.

Zai N., Associate Director, SEO, Omnicom Media Group Asia Pacific: A strategic SEO and digital marketing expert with over 10 years of experience in driving omnichannel growth and performance across APAC. Specializes in data-driven SEO, content strategy, and AI-powered search optimization. Known for delivering significant improvements in traffic, engagement, and brand visibility.

Reza Thaher, Head of SEO, Giladiskon: A versatile SEO leader with a strong foundation in marketing, creative writing, and digital strategy. Brings extensive experience in building and executing cross-media campaigns and SEO initiatives. Known for blending creativity with performance-driven strategies to enhance digital visibility.

Jackson Gilbert, Digital Marketing Associate Director, Global Media Insight: With over 15 years of experience and 450+ projects delivered, Jackson is a veteran in digital marketing strategy and execution. His expertise spans SEO, PPC, analytics, and conversion optimization across diverse industries. Known for leading large teams and complex projects, he consistently delivers impactful, data-driven results.

Shushanta Guha, Director – SEO and Experience, Merkle Singapore: A seasoned marketing and SEO leader with strong expertise in multi-channel strategy, performance marketing, and user experience. Proven ability to drive growth across B2B and B2C sectors through integrated campaigns and data-led decision making. Brings a comprehensive approach to SEO and digital transformation.

Oliver Hirst, Technical SEO Lead, 3M: A seasoned SEO and digital marketing leader with over a decade of experience driving organic growth across global brands and startups. Specializes in technical SEO, content strategy, and international search optimization across APAC markets. Known for building bespoke, data-driven strategies that enhance visibility, performance, and long-term business impact.

Pandu Furwani, Sr. SEO Manager, Bukalapak: An experienced SEO leader driving organic growth for large-scale e-commerce platforms. Brings a strong background in SEO strategy, digital marketing, and product optimization. Has contributed to building and scaling SEO functions across leading Indonesian tech companies. Combines technical knowledge with business-focused execution.

Rashad Shaheen, Founder & Head of SEO, JordanHost: A visionary SEO leader, Rashad has built and scaled a high-performing search strategy in a highly competitive hosting market. He achieved sustained top Google rankings, competing with global giants like Hostinger and AWS. His approach focuses on long-term visibility, high-intent traffic, and strategic SEO frameworks.

Furat Jarad, Regional Head of SEO & Innovation, Chain Reaction: An award-winning search expert with over 13 years of experience, Furat leads SEO innovation across the MENA region for global brands. His expertise spans technical SEO, content, and performance marketing, backed by a strong track record with industry giants. A recognized speaker and judge, he continues to shape the future of search through strategy and innovation.

Remya K.K, Digital Marketing Manager, Pentagon SEO: A results-oriented digital marketing professional, Remya brings over a decade of experience in SEO and performance marketing. With a strong foundation in analytics and search strategy, she has consistently driven growth through evolving digital trends. Her expertise lies in delivering sustainable visibility and performance for global clients.

Richy Minds (Kothakun Petchruangrong), SEO Team Lead, First Page Digital: An experienced SEO professional skilled in driving performance through innovative strategies across global brands. He brings expertise in technical SEO, AI-driven solutions, and multi-channel optimization including SEM and social platforms. Known for blending creativity with analytics to enhance user experience and campaign outcomes.

Mico Villaseñor, SEO Manager, PurpleClick Media Pte Ltd: A seasoned SEO expert with over a decade of experience in driving organic growth through ethical optimization practices. He specializes in technical audits, keyword strategy, and link building to improve rankings and traffic. His data-driven approach ensures consistent performance and long-term search success.

Monica Chia, Head of Organic APAC, The Egg Company: A seasoned APAC digital leader with deep expertise in SEO, performance marketing, and digital experience strategy. Known for building regional SEO frameworks and leading cross-market teams to deliver measurable growth. Focused on leveraging generative AI to redefine search strategies in evolving markets.

Omkar Gurjar, Head of Organic Search, Sentius: A digital product and SEO leader with extensive experience across global markets including Singapore, India, and Australia. Specialises in building data-driven organic growth strategies and high-performing cross-functional teams. Known for driving scalable SEO operations and aligning strategy with measurable business impact.

Gilang Biantara, Head of SEO, IDEOWORKS.ID: A seasoned digital marketing professional with over 7 years of experience specializing in organic search. He combines technical SEO, analytics, and strategic leadership to deliver performance-driven campaigns. Proven ability to lead teams and solve complex SEO challenges.

Joe Handaya, Group Web, SEO & Product Manager, Ruangguru: An enterprise SEO and product leader managing large-scale SEO operations across multiple brands and regions. He excels in cross-functional collaboration, AI-driven search strategies, and scalable growth frameworks. Known for aligning SEO with business and product goals.

Denny Setiawan, Founder, Kingserp: An SEO veteran with over 18 years of experience in building large-scale organic growth systems. Former Head of SEO at MNC Media, managing high-traffic platforms with millions of users. Recognized for driving enterprise-level SEO strategies and leading high-performing teams.

Cippy Bastian, Head of Digital Asset Management, InboundID: A passionate digital marketing leader with deep expertise in SEO and performance strategy. Has successfully led multiple SEO teams and delivered high-impact organic growth across industries. Known for continuously innovating and developing data-driven strategies to stay ahead in the evolving digital landscape.

Nifraz Nazar, Head of SEO, USEO – United Search Engine Optimization: A digital marketing expert with 15+ years of experience, Nifraz excels in technical SEO, content strategy, and performance optimization. He has helped businesses across industries enhance visibility, traffic, and conversions through tailored strategies. His leadership and focus on process improvement drive consistent and scalable results.

Reza Putra, CEO & Founder, Batara Ismaya: A seasoned SEO transformation specialist with 17+ years of experience in online marketing and digital growth. Reza has led high-impact SEO and performance strategies across major brands like Tokopedia and MNC Digital. Alongside running his agency, he actively contributes to the ecosystem as an SEO educator and lecturer. His work focuses on driving sustainable organic revenue and empowering the next generation of digital professionals.

Aaron Gomes, Head of Search Engine Optimization, OMX Digital: A data-driven SEO leader, Aaron combines technical expertise with a strong focus on customer-centric strategies. With experience across enterprise SEO and AI-driven innovation, he has consistently scaled digital portfolios and improved performance. His ability to blend analytics with creative problem-solving sets him apart in the search landscape.

Moosa H., Sr. SEO Lead, Superpath: A seasoned SEO professional with over a decade of experience, Moosa leads enterprise-level SEO strategies with a strong focus on AI-driven innovation. He has successfully managed global teams and integrated SEO into broader marketing ecosystems. His expertise spans technical SEO, content strategy, and scalable growth frameworks.

Darwin Singarimbun, Head of SEO, DGtraffic Indonesia: With experience dating back to 2010, Darwin is a highly skilled SEO expert known for his strength in on-page and off-page optimization. He has played a key role in building and leading SEO strategies at DGtraffic. His expertise spans analytics, keyword strategy, and long-term search performance growth.

Trupti (Arbune) Sali, SEO Manager, Digitalfarm: A certified digital marketing professional, Trupti brings extensive expertise in SEO, paid campaigns, and web development. With a strong background in managing end-to-end digital strategies, she excels in driving traffic, improving rankings, and generating leads. Her multi-disciplinary approach ensures effective campaign execution across platforms.

James Reynolds, CEO & Founder, SEO Sherpa: A globally recognized SEO expert and entrepreneur with extensive experience in driving organic growth for leading brands. Founder of a top-performing SEO agency known for delivering measurable results in traffic and customer acquisition. Specializes in technical SEO, content marketing, and digital PR. Widely acknowledged for his contributions to the global search marketing industry.

Ryan Kristo Muljono, CEO, ToffeeDev: A digital marketing leader with over 15 years of experience, Ryan has successfully scaled ToffeeDev into a prominent agency specializing in SEO, PPC, and bot-driven marketing solutions. With a strong foundation in performance marketing and automation, he has helped businesses achieve measurable growth. He is also a published author and continues to drive innovation in online marketing strategies.

Tevfik Mert Azizoğlu, Lead SEO & AI, SEO Sherpa: Blending technical SEO with AI innovation, Tevfik is at the forefront of integrating automation and machine learning into search strategies. With a computer engineering background, he has developed impactful tools and led award-winning campaigns across global markets. His work continues to push the boundaries of SEO through LLMs, automation, and advanced analytics.

Gaurav Kapoor, SEO Manager, Aspiration Worx: An experienced SEO professional with a strong foundation in digital marketing and web development, Gaurav specializes in on-page and off-page optimization strategies. With years of hands-on experience across multiple industries, he brings a data-driven and creative approach to improving search visibility. His technical and analytical skills enable consistent performance growth.

Samarjeet Chauhan, Associate Director – Organic Growth (SEO), The Luxury Closet: With over 15 years of experience, Samarjeet is a seasoned SEO leader known for driving large-scale organic growth across diverse industries. His expertise spans technical SEO, content architecture, and advanced search optimization including AEO and AI-driven search. He has a proven track record of managing high-impact SEO strategies for enterprise platforms.

Deepak Mankani, Head of Integrated CXM Strategy, Merkle: A strategic leader at the intersection of SEO, GenAI, and customer experience, Deepak drives enterprise-level digital transformation. He excels in integrating SEO, analytics, CRM, and experience design into cohesive growth strategies. Known for scaling teams and delivering high-impact solutions, he is shaping the future of AI-powered search and CXM.

Melvin Fam, Head of SEO, OOm: Leads the SEO department with a strong focus on strategy, account performance, and client KPI achievement. Known for mentoring teams and driving continuous skill development, he combines technical expertise with strong account management and consulting capabilities. His leadership ensures both team growth and consistent campaign success.

Jude Zander Quiroz, General Manager PH and Group Director of SEO & AI Integration Lead, Mediatropy: A results-driven SEO and AI integration leader with over a decade of experience across APAC markets. Known for combining technical SEO with content-led strategies to drive revenue growth and digital transformation. Brings a holistic, data-driven approach to scaling organic performance for both startups and enterprises.

Nur Anasta Rahmat, Chief Executive Officer & Founder, Vannora Indonesia: A seasoned digital leader with a strong track record in scaling businesses and driving revenue growth. Led WeaReGroup to achieve a 78% increase in annual revenue while delivering exceptional SEO and marketing outcomes. Known for executing high-impact strategies across SEO, paid media, and PR for leading regional and global brands.

William Antonius, Associate SEO Director, iProspect Indonesia: A results-driven SEO leader known for combining data analysis with user behavior insights to deliver impactful growth. Experienced in building scalable SEO strategies and leading teams across diverse industries. Plays a key role in driving innovation and strengthening business profitability through search.

Kit M Fung, SEO Manager, ZALORA Singapore: Kit is an experienced SEO professional with a strong background in e-commerce optimization and content strategy across Southeast Asia. At ZALORA, she has led large-scale SEO initiatives including keyword strategy, link building, and performance analysis. Her ability to manage cross-market teams and optimize high-volume platforms has driven consistent organic growth.

Asad Khan, Digital Director, First Page Digital: A seasoned digital leader with 15+ years of experience, driving integrated search, content, and growth strategies across APAC. He specializes in aligning SEO, paid media, and UX to deliver measurable business outcomes. Known for managing enterprise portfolios and adapting strategies to evolving AI-driven search landscapes.

Luis Tejedor Campos, Digital & Performance Marketing Director, Construct Digital: A dynamic marketing leader with 13+ years of experience across SEO, performance marketing, and analytics. He drives global campaigns across multiple continents, combining data insights with strategic execution. Known for delivering measurable growth, award-winning campaigns, and building high-performing teams.

Mohamed Hosny Barakat, CEO & Founder, Yalla Media: A digital growth leader with over 15 years of experience in SEO, AI-driven optimization, and automation. Known for integrating advanced technologies to enhance organic visibility and performance. Has led large-scale digital transformation initiatives across major brands in the GCC. Focuses on building scalable systems that drive measurable business outcomes.

Nitesh S., Head of SEO, GrowthOps: An enterprise SEO strategist transforming organic search into a predictable revenue engine through AI-driven and data-led frameworks. Specialises in aligning technical SEO with business outcomes, delivering significant revenue and traffic growth. Recognised for innovation in agentic AI workflows and large-scale organic architectures.

Alvindar Singh, AVP, SEO, Mediacorp Pte Ltd: An accomplished SEO leader with extensive experience in media and digital marketing, currently leading SEO initiatives at Singapore’s largest media network. Brings deep expertise in managing large-scale content ecosystems and driving organic growth across diverse platforms. Proven track record in building high-impact SEO strategies across regional markets.

Muhammad Ilman Akbar, Founder & CEO, DailySEO ID: An influential SEO leader and educator with over a decade of experience, Ilman has played a pivotal role in shaping SEO strategies for top companies like Traveloka and Glints. Through DailySEO ID, he is democratizing SEO knowledge via content, training, and consulting. Known for his data-driven and business-focused approach, he consistently drives sustainable growth and industry impact.

Yoko Widito, CEO and Founder, Harika Digital: A technical SEO expert and digital strategist with over 10 years of experience in scalable organic growth. He focuses on data-driven SEO, website performance, and conversion-focused strategies. Recognized for building high-impact SEO frameworks for enterprise brands.

Mery Waty, Head of SEO Strategist, DGtraffic Indonesia: Mery combines her passion for writing with deep SEO expertise, evolving from a copywriter to a strategic leader. She has been instrumental in driving content-led SEO growth and managing high-performing teams. Her focus on continuous learning and innovation sets her apart in the industry.

Alif Fianza, SEO Manager, Merkle (part of dentsu Indonesia): An experienced SEO professional with a strong background in technical optimization and performance marketing. Demonstrates consistent growth across leading digital agencies through strategic SEO implementation. Skilled in managing complex campaigns and delivering measurable business outcomes.

Rehman Raza, SEO Manager, Digitalfarm: With over a decade of experience in the Dubai market, Rehman is a results-focused SEO and digital marketing expert known for ranking hundreds of keywords on Google’s first page. His expertise spans SEO, social media marketing, and web development, driving business growth and lead generation. A hands-on strategist, he consistently delivers strong visibility and sales impact.

Andrea Baggio, Director of Operations, SEO Sherpa: A seasoned digital marketing leader with deep expertise across EMEA and MENA markets, Andrea drives high-performance SEO and SEM strategies at scale. With a strong foundation in product, data, and automation, he operates at the intersection of marketing and technology. His passion for building tools using Python and JavaScript further strengthens his innovative approach to search.

Lama AlHaqhaq, Head of SEO, Red Blue Blur Ideas (RBBi): An experienced SEO leader with over a decade in the industry, Lama specializes in driving discoverability and performance across diverse sectors. Her expertise spans technical SEO, content strategy, and AI-led search optimization. She is known for delivering meaningful business outcomes by aligning search strategy with user experience.

Rami Rjoub, Search Engine Optimization Consultant, Maps of Arabia: A specialist in regional and Arabic SEO, Rami has built and scaled a leading search agency in the Middle East. He is known for delivering top-ranking results through data-driven strategies and managing diverse client portfolios. His expertise in local and international SEO makes him a key player in regional search growth.

Ryan Achadiat, Digital Content Specialist, Mars: An accomplished SEO and content leader, Ryan brings over a decade of experience across media, agencies, and global brands. He excels at building scalable content ecosystems that drive organic growth and engagement. His storytelling background enhances his ability to create impactful, search-optimized content strategies.

Ashraf El Bay, Associate Director – SEO/GEO, Merkle MENA: A seasoned SEO professional with progressive experience across leading digital agencies in the MENA region. Specializes in developing and executing data-driven SEO strategies aligned with business goals. Strong expertise in managing enterprise SEO campaigns and cross-functional collaboration. Brings a well-rounded background in digital marketing and performance optimization.

Irvan Sanjaya, AVP of SEO, Blibli.com: A highly accomplished SEO leader with expertise in SEO, ASO, and emerging AI-driven optimization strategies. Has delivered significant growth in organic traffic and app performance across major digital platforms. Brings deep experience in managing large-scale SEO operations and high-impact campaigns. Known for driving innovation in search and performance marketing.

Wendy Novianto, SEO Senior Manager, IDN Media: Wendy is a results-driven SEO leader with strong expertise in managing large-scale content platforms. He has successfully led SEO strategies for multiple high-traffic websites under IDN Media. Known for his team leadership and technical knowledge, he consistently drives sustainable organic growth.

Aris Tianto, Manager SEO S&SA, Philip Morris International: A seasoned SEO leader with over a decade of experience across top brands and agencies, Aris has consistently driven organic growth and digital transformation. His expertise spans technical SEO, performance marketing, and multi-channel strategy. He has held leadership roles at GroupM, Fabelio, and Wego, delivering impactful results across Southeast Asia.

Marwan Al Deeb, Digital Performance Director, SpexMedia: A digital marketing expert with over 14 years of experience, Marwan specializes in performance marketing and full-funnel strategy. He has led high-impact campaigns for major brands across Saudi Arabia, driving ROI through data-driven insights. His expertise spans SEO, paid media, and growth marketing at scale.

Amel Chettouf, SEO Director, Assembly Global: A seasoned SEO leader with deep expertise in technical and on-page optimization, Amel has progressed rapidly through leadership roles at Assembly. She specializes in site architecture, international SEO, and data-driven audits for large-scale brands. With a strong foundation in analytics tools and luxury fashion SEO, she consistently delivers high-impact search strategies.

MengJung Tsai, Head of SEO, WPP Media: A growth-focused SEO leader with 13+ years of experience scaling brand visibility across APAC markets. Known for integrating search with content, media, and creative strategies to drive both performance and long-term brand equity. Brings strong expertise in building multi-market, data-driven marketing roadmaps.

Calvin Tedja, CEO and Founder, OmniRank: A performance-driven SEO entrepreneur with a decade of experience delivering measurable growth for leading brands. He specializes in data-led SEO and high-impact link building strategies. Known for achieving strong organic traffic growth and top search rankings.

Frans F., SEO Senior Manager, Traveloka: A seasoned SEO leader with over a decade of experience, Frans has driven large-scale organic growth across leading platforms like Tokopedia and Traveloka. He specializes in scaling SEO strategies, app growth, and user acquisition. His leadership has consistently delivered high-impact results in competitive digital ecosystems.

Antonius Putu S., SEO and ASO Manager, Transfez: A forward-thinking SEO and ASO expert, Antonius specializes in integrating AI-driven strategies and app store optimization. With extensive experience across digital media and consulting, he focuses on maximizing organic visibility and ROI. His innovative approach includes leveraging GEO and adapting to evolving search behaviors.

Salem Roubi, Business Development Manager & Head of SEO, Edirect: A dynamic SEO leader and strategist, Salem combines technical expertise with business development to drive growth across global markets. He leads cross-functional teams and manages international SEO campaigns spanning the UK, US, UAE, and KSA. His data-driven approach and focus on innovation have delivered measurable results for diverse clients.

Shaima’a Qandil, Senior SEO Manager, Assembly Global: An accomplished SEO professional with strong experience across MENA markets, Shaima’a specializes in technical SEO, content strategy, and AI-driven optimization. She has successfully managed regional accounts and led high-performing teams. Her expertise lies in delivering scalable strategies that boost visibility and organic growth.

Danang Prasetyo, SEO & ASO Manager, Publicis Groupe: A seasoned SEO and ASO professional with a strong foundation in organic growth and paid optimization, Danang has consistently driven high-impact results across leading Indonesian brands. With over a decade of hands-on experience, including Google AdSense publishing, he blends performance marketing with scalable SEO strategies. His expertise lies in maximizing traffic and revenue through data-driven experimentation and execution.

Muhammad Reza Kantosa, Search Engine Optimization Manager, Dentsu Indonesia: With 9+ years in digital marketing, Reza specializes in building impactful SEO strategies for enterprise clients, including Nestlé. His experience spans technical SEO, content collaboration, and product-focused optimization across diverse industries. A growth-oriented strategist, he combines data analysis and innovation to enhance brand visibility and long-term search performance.

Hans Christian Ferdinand, Head of Marketing Analyst & SEO, Vidio: A data-driven marketing leader, Hans brings deep expertise in SEO and analytics to drive growth for large-scale digital platforms. Currently leading both SEO and marketing analytics at Vidio, he focuses on building insight-led strategies that power performance. His strong background across top companies reflects his ability to align data, content, and technology for measurable impact.

Waleed Hassan, Associate Director SEO & Content, dubizzle: Waleed is a seasoned SEO and content leader with extensive experience across leading platforms like Bayut and dubizzle. With a strong foundation in content strategy and outreach, he has consistently driven organic growth and brand visibility. His career progression reflects deep expertise in building scalable SEO frameworks and high-impact content ecosystems.

Robert Nichols, SEO Manager, Mediacorp Pte Ltd: Leads enterprise-scale SEO strategy across multiple high-traffic digital properties, managing millions of indexed pages for multilingual audiences. Known for integrating AI-driven tools to streamline SEO workflows and newsroom optimization. Brings strong expertise in technical SEO, site migrations, and real-time content performance. Plays a key role in driving innovation at the intersection of SEO and automation.

Nikhil Hari Das, Head of Search, NEXA: A results-driven search leader, Nikhil specializes in building integrated SEO and SEM strategies that drive measurable growth. With extensive experience in managing high-performing campaigns and cross-functional teams, he combines data insights with technical expertise. His focus on ROI-driven search marketing makes him a key force in digital growth.

Wahyu Saputro, Head of SEO, Impactive Agency Indonesia: Specializes in semantic SEO and building topical authority strategies for brands across industries. Known for helping businesses strengthen their online presence through intent-driven optimization. Brings experience working with both global and local clients. Focused on creating sustainable and scalable SEO frameworks.

Kanika L., Digital Marketing Manager, Leads Dubai: With over 10 years of experience, Kanika is a skilled SEO and digital marketing professional with deep expertise in technical and content-driven strategies. She excels in managing end-to-end campaigns across SEO, PPC, and social media. Her strong analytical approach and command over industry tools enable consistent growth and lead generation.

Joanne Q., Head of Search, Impossible Marketing: A results-driven SEO leader with over a decade of experience managing 400+ campaigns across diverse industries. She excels in delivering data-driven strategies that improve search visibility and rankings. Alongside campaign success, she focuses on team leadership and aligning performance with business goals.

Darran Hong, SEO Manager, JJ’s House: A performance-focused SEO professional with strong expertise in driving organic traffic and revenue growth for global brands. Experienced across technical, content, and e-commerce SEO, with a proven ability to deliver measurable results. Recognized for optimizing search performance across multiple markets and verticals.

Eriga Syifaudin Al Mansur, SEO Lead, Qwords Cloud Web Hosting Indonesia: An innovative SEO strategist focused on integrating AI with content and technical SEO for scalable growth. He brings strong leadership in content management, mentoring, and data-driven optimization. Passionate about education and building future SEO talent.

Erwin Petas, SEO Manager, kumparan: An experienced SEO professional with over a decade in digital marketing and search optimization. He specializes in keyword research, performance analysis, and driving organic growth. Known for delivering consistent results through data-backed strategies.

Rana ElSafadi, Senior Manager – SEO Experience Design, Publicis Groupe: Rana brings a unique blend of SEO expertise and information systems knowledge to drive data-backed digital strategies. With experience in analytics, system design, and SEO, she excels in optimizing user experience and search performance. Her structured, analytical approach supports effective and scalable SEO execution.

Ebrahim Aboualmajd, Senior SEO Specialist, Orion Digital: A results-driven SEO expert with over 6 years of experience across global and MENA markets, Ebrahim specializes in technical SEO, AI-driven optimization, and international growth strategies. He has led high-impact campaigns for Tier-1 brands like Samsung and Trendyol, delivering significant traffic and revenue growth. A proven team leader and award-winning strategist, he excels at bridging technical execution with business goals. 

Akilan S, SEO Manager, Bee Idea Technology LLC: Akilan is a highly skilled SEO expert with 9+ years of experience across fintech, edtech, and iGaming domains. Known for his deep technical SEO expertise, he has delivered exponential traffic growth for major platforms like BankBazaar and Embibe. His strength lies in combining technical precision with strategic optimization to drive sustained organic growth.

Bayan Sammour, Associate Director, WPP Media MENA: A data-focused SEO strategist, Bayan specializes in building impactful SEO and AI-driven solutions to boost visibility and conversions. With strong expertise in technical SEO, content strategy, and analytics, she has successfully managed high-performing client accounts. Her ability to integrate SEO with broader marketing strategies drives consistent growth.

Jin Ma, Director of Experience, Dentsu: A performance marketing leader driving AI-led search strategies and integrated digital experiences across APAC. Leads cross-market SEO teams and spearheads innovation in marketplace and owned media optimisation. Recognised for delivering award-winning campaigns and scaling impactful search and CRO capabilities.

Fadhil Dzikri Muhammad, Director Search Engine Optimization, Selangkah Agency: A dynamic SEO strategist and entrepreneur, Fadhil brings over a decade of hands-on experience in digital marketing and business growth. As Founder of Apookat, he blends technical SEO with content and training expertise. He is also an active mentor and speaker, shaping the next generation of SEO professionals.

Safi Ullah Baig, SEO Lead, dubizzle Group: Leads SEO strategy across multiple high-traffic platforms in real estate, automotive, and classifieds sectors. Known for building scalable SEO systems and driving significant growth in organic traffic and leads. Combines technical expertise with strong data analytics and experimentation frameworks. Focused on embedding SEO into product and business strategy for long-term impact.

Annisa Fauziyyah, Search Engine Optimization Analyst, ManageEngine: An SEO specialist with strong expertise in keyword research, content strategy, and organic growth. Experienced in leading performance marketing and SEO teams, driving acquisition and ROI through data-driven strategies. Proven ability to scale content and backlink strategies for sustained traffic growth.

Muhammad Zaky Afdika, SEO Lead, Igloo Indonesia: An experienced SEO professional with a strong background in performance-driven optimization and content strategy. Has contributed to organic growth across insurance and digital platforms. Skilled in technical SEO, analytics, and web content development. Focuses on delivering consistent improvements in search visibility and user engagement.

Mamtha Dhamodharan, Digital Marketing Specialist, 7G Media – Digital Agency: Mamtha is a versatile digital marketing professional with 8+ years of experience across SEO, PPC, social media, and email marketing. Known for delivering results across industries like healthcare, tourism, and government, she excels in crafting integrated campaigns. Her data-driven approach and strong command of SEO tools enable consistent growth and optimized digital performance.

Brillian G., Head of SEO, Shopee Indonesia: A dynamic SEO leader driving large-scale organic growth for one of Indonesia’s top marketplaces, Brillian has successfully doubled traffic through data-driven strategies. With strong expertise across technical, on-page, and content SEO, he excels in managing cross-functional teams and complex ecosystems. His agency background and experience across 50+ clients add depth to his performance-led approach.

Miftahul Khoir, Head of Dept. Digital Marketing, PT. Cakra Radha Mustika (Kalbe Group): A data-driven digital marketing leader specializing in SEO, content strategy, and performance marketing. Miftahul has extensive experience in building scalable digital ecosystems and driving measurable growth across healthcare and tech platforms. He excels at integrating analytics with creative strategy to optimize user journeys, engagement, and conversions.

Hazal Ulubas, SEO Manager, Emirates: An experienced SEO specialist with a strong track record in improving search rankings and driving organic traffic growth. Skilled in both technical and content-led SEO strategies, along with performance tracking and analytics. Brings cross-industry experience and a collaborative approach to integrating SEO into broader marketing efforts. Focused on delivering measurable business impact through optimization.

Salma Benomar, SEO Director, Assembly Global: An experienced international SEO expert, Salma brings strong capabilities across multilingual optimization in Arabic, English, and French. She has led SEO strategies across industries, combining technical audits, content optimization, and client management. Her data-driven approach and global perspective make her a strong force in performance-driven SEO.

Gokul Merina Renjith, Head of SEO, Home of Performance: A performance-driven SEO leader with a strong focus on AI-powered search and growth strategies, Gokul has scaled through multiple leadership roles. He excels in cross-functional team management, content strategy, and performance marketing. His expertise lies in aligning SEO with broader business goals to drive measurable digital growth.

Tara M., SEO Manager, ALVA Digital Network: An experienced SEO specialist with a decade-long track record in technical SEO, content strategy, and search performance. Known for building sustainable visibility and brand credibility across industries including automotive, travel, and e-commerce. Brings a strategic and long-term perspective to organic growth.

Amira Mohamed, Head of SEO, SOLVEDISA: A results-driven SEO leader known for building and scaling data-first organic growth strategies that enhance visibility and ROI. She brings strong expertise in technical SEO, content optimization, and analytics, aligning search performance with business goals. With experience across diverse industries, she leads cross-functional teams to deliver sustainable and measurable impact. Her approach blends strategic insight with continuous innovation in international and multi-language SEO.

Dafa Raditya Denishtsany, Lead of SEO Specialist, ToffeeDev: A results-driven SEO leader with strong expertise in local SEO, content strategy, and team management. He blends data-driven insights with creative execution to build high-impact SEO campaigns. Known for driving measurable growth and fostering high-performing teams.

Zoya (Zoya Mansoori) Parveen, Head of SEO, Confidential: Zoya is an accomplished SEO leader with a strong track record in driving revenue-focused digital strategies across competitive industries, including iGaming. With progressive experience from specialist to head roles, she excels in scaling organic growth and managing high-impact SEO campaigns. Her expertise lies in aligning search strategies with business outcomes.

Shuyeong Tan, SEO Manager, Verz Design: An SEO specialist with a strong foundation in content-driven optimization and copywriting. She has progressed through multiple SEO roles, building expertise in technical and on-page strategies. Known for crafting content that enhances visibility and aligns with search intent.

Mohammad Hasweh, SEO Manager, WPP Media: An experienced SEO professional with a strong background in content and digital marketing, Mohammad has worked across leading platforms and agencies. He has consistently improved organic visibility and search performance for regional and international brands. His expertise lies in content-driven SEO and performance optimization.

Abid Zain, Head of Digital, Adprix Arabia: A results-driven digital marketing strategist, Abid specializes in SEO, content marketing, and organic growth. He has successfully led end-to-end SEO strategies for international clients, driving significant traffic and engagement. Alongside his industry work, he is also dedicated to mentoring emerging digital marketers.

Conclusion
The professionals featured in this edition exemplify what it means to lead in an ever-changing search ecosystem. Their ability to combine data, creativity, and strategic thinking has enabled brands across industries to achieve sustained visibility and business success. By navigating complexities across diverse markets such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, and Indonesia, they demonstrate the global relevance and local nuance required to excel in SEO today.

As the digital landscape continues to transform, the role of search leaders will only become more critical. The individuals recognised here are not only driving results but also setting benchmarks for innovation, collaboration, and impact. This editorial stands as a testament to their contributions and as an inspiration for the next generation of SEO professionals shaping the future of organic growth.

– Researched & Edited by Shivani Solanki

Disclaimer
This editorial, “Top 100 Search Stars – APAC & MENA Edition: Honouring Excellence in Organic Growth,” is based on independent research, industry insights, and publicly available professional information available at the time of compilation. The individuals featured have been selected from specific markets including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, and Indonesia, and do not represent an exhaustive or definitive list of all SEO professionals across the APAC and MENA regions.

Our evaluation follows a thoughtful and structured approach, considering multiple factors such as overall industry experience, leadership influence, strategic contributions, innovation, market presence, and impact within the search and digital ecosystem. However, the selection process is inherently subjective and may not fully capture every dimension of an individual’s professional journey or organisational impact.

The listing and order of profiles in this editorial are based on overall industry experience and professional tenure. It is important to note that this is not a ranking, and the sequence does not reflect any hierarchy, performance comparison, or preference.

While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the information presented, roles, achievements, and affiliations may evolve over time. Given the dynamic nature of the industry and the scope of available information, there may be inadvertent omissions or variations.

Inclusion of any individual or organisation is intended solely for recognition purposes and does not constitute an endorsement, affiliation, or guarantee of future performance. This editorial is a curated acknowledgement of contributions to the field of search and organic growth and should not be considered a comprehensive industry benchmark.

We value transparency, fairness, and continuous improvement. Feedback, updates, or suggestions are welcome and may be considered for future editions.