Datin Sri Sharifah Menyalara “Lara” Hussein

Datin Sri Sharifah Menyalara Hussein, known as Lara, is the CEO and founding partner of M&C Saatchi Kuala Lumpur. Her trailblazing spirit is well recognised, as she was the first Malaysian woman to receive the Business Leader of the Year award at the Women Leading Change Awards in 2019.

She developed her discerning eye and inimitable taste in her formative years abroad, particularly during her year in Paris at the age of 19. Lara speaks fluent French and has a complete understanding of the world, which is important for thriving in a creative industry. Her leadership style is characterised by a balance of critical reflection and classic elegance, much like her fashion philosophy.

She has held senior roles at Bates, Dentsu, and Young & Rubicam, and founded M&C Saatchi Malaysia in 2003, expanding it into a powerhouse serving blue chip clients such as Axiata, CIMB, and Astro. She made history in 2018 as the first Malaysian woman to receive the Business Leader of the Year award at the Women Leading Change Awards. Under her leadership, M&C Saatchi consistently ranks among the top agencies, earning numerous gold awards for its creative endeavours. Lara’s approach to style blends classic and modern elements, creating a timeless yet contemporary look that prioritises comfort, simplicity, and practicality. Her wardrobe is a masterful curation of classic pieces and contemporary trends.