After qualifying from Wits University with a Bachelor of Arts degree, Tula's working career began as an English high school teacher. After seven years and some disappointment with outcomes-based education, she turned to the corporate world for new opportunities. Tula then spent close on three years researching and producing human resource conferences before seeking greener pastures. At the request of a friend, Tula met human.kind Advertising's MD, Deon Kruger, to discuss an account executive position; she quickly realised this was a golden opportunity to put her communication skills to the test in a new industry. On retrospection, Tula recalls her first few meetings where she jotted down an A4 page of industry acronyms that had her scratching her head. Over the years this self-starter put herself through various courses which include marketing, branding and media, and today she has a well-grounded knowledge of the industry at large.
By nature Tula is a task-oriented person who strives to bring out the best in people. Her leadership qualities were recognised early in her career at human.kind and within two years she was promoted to the management team.
As business unit director, Tula heads up a team of account executives and an account director who service the agency's insurance clients, including hippo.co.za, Budget Insurance, 1lifedirect, Telesure Group Services, and Auto & General. Tula also works on Consol Glass - the account that won a certificate at the New York Festivals for its 'Choose Glass' campaign.
Tula's role at the agency is particularly focused on ensuring clients are always wowed by the agency and that they are getting the best possible account management. She keeps her finger on the pulse of all her client needs and is integrally involved in each brand's strategic planning. From an HR perspective she ensures her team is settled and happy. As a key member of the agency's executive team she plays a significant role in the development and implementation of the very special work ethos and tone that human.kind is well known for.
Outside of work, Tula's unequivocal passion is evident in her love for her religion and her family. Her parents, sister, niece, nephew and godchild are the light of her life, and her heart for children overflows to the Agape Inner City Projects - a home for abandoned kids where she is involved in charity work.
Those close to Tula all agree that she is ridiculously social - and if you are lucky enough to catch her on a night in, you will find her doing what she loves most - planning a night out with friends or family!
