Ogilvy South Africa appoints new CEO

Newly appointed CEO of Ogilvy South Africa, Abey Mokgwatsane

Comments Mokgwatsane, "I started my career at VWV when I was 19 as a marketing intern; I am forever greatful for the growth opportunities that [VWV Group founder and chairman] Mark [Steinhobel] and the VWV team have given me over the years. I remain confident of VWV's bright future - our paths will cross again."

Mokgwatsane, who previously worked for South African Breweries (SAB) as brand manager for Castle Loud and brand group manager for Miller Genuine Draft, was widely credited with the successful launch of the MGD brand into the South African market, earning three Managing Directors Awards for marketing excellence at SAB. In 2005, Mokgwatsane joined the VWV Group and was appointed as CEO in 2007.

"I stand on the shoulder of giants"

Nominated as one of South Africa's Mail & Guardian Top 200 Young Leaders of the year in 2011, Mokgwatsane comments on his appointment, "I stand on the shoulders of giants. What Nunu and her team have accomplished is extraordinary. I am honoured to steward the agency to even greater heights, turning it into one that predicts, adapts to and is a catalyst for change."

"We are thrilled by Abey's appointment," said Ntshingila, who will continue to guide the company, focussing on mentoring talent, African development and the global Ogilvy organisation.

"Finding the right talent is critical to the growth and diversity of our company to meet the future challenges and opportunities that both we and the industry face. We have exceptional depth and experience in our company and we now need to look to the future. There is no one better to lead us now than Abey. His strong background in integrated communications, spanning the spectrum of advertising, brand experience, digital media and broader communications makes him a real asset to our group."

"Have no doubt his impact on Ogilvy will be significant"

Says Steinhobel, "Over the past five years, Abey's leadership has played a major role in re-establishing VWV's position as the preeminent brand experience agency in the country. We wish him well in his new position, and have no doubt that his impact on Ogilvy will be significant.

"Looking ahead we are excited about finding someone who will lead us into a new era in the marketing industry - everything is changing rapidly and VWV is well positioned to take advantage of the shift to experiential and digital media marketing."

"VWV is entrenching its position in Africa and the US - over 50% of our revenue comes from outside of SA and we are also making strong strides into social and mobile media, as well as consumer brand experience marketing. Leading us into this new and exciting chapter of our agency's life will be a challenging assignment indeed."

Mokgwatsane is a frequent contributor and blogger for Bizcommunity.com.

Updated at 4.42pm on 29 November 2011.