Tracey McLaine

Tracey is a senior strategic communications advisor with nearly 30 years’ experience supporting governments, regulators, and business leaders across Europe, the Middle East, and the United States. She leads Hawthorn’s Abu Dhabi office, advising clients on complex reputation strategy, global positioning, and regulatory communications.

Her work spans high-impact mandates across commercial gaming, smart cities, sustainability, the digital economy, and emerging technologies. Tracey has led communications for sovereign projects, advised royal households, and worked closely with both family offices and tech innovators. She brings particular expertise in preparing companies for IPO, positioning them for acquisition, and navigating moments of high reputational risk.

Tracey’s counsel is trusted by ministers, CEOs, and boards navigating transformational change. She has supported the establishment of new regulators, shaped global communications strategies for government leaders, and led high-level engagement at major international events.

A passionate advocate for talent development, Tracey also mentors emerging leaders and has built high-performing, cross-market teams across her career.