Ntshingila and Mashishi in new leadership roles at Ogilvy

In addition, Nandi Scorer becomes MD of Ogilvy Johannesburg and Haydn Townsend, deputy MD of Ogilvy Johannesburg.

The appointments have all been internal, which Putter says reflects the enormous strength in depth in the group. "Proper succession has enabled our group to lead the industry for well over three decades, and these appointments will ensure that this continues."

Nunu Ntshingila's appointment as CEO follows outgoing group MD, Gary Leih's move to the Ogilvy Group in the UK, as chairman.

Putter says the group has seen a remarkable turnaround under Gary Leih's leadership, with substantial billings and profit growth, significant new business, and many creative and industry awards.

"Leih leaves Ogilvy South Africa in good shape, well positioned to continue and build on its resurgence, and although his departure is disappointing, it creates some exciting opportunities for a number of people, and marks the beginning of a new era in our company," says Putter.

Ntshingila takes on the role of CEO of Ogilvy South Africa with immediate effect. As chairman of Ogilvy Johannesburg, Ntshingila proved to be a formidable leader and the natural successor to Putter. She was recently voted AdFocus's Agency Leader of the Year.

"She has become one of the leading lights in the South African advertising industry and is hugely respected in our company for her understanding of our business and how we use what we do to the benefit of our clients," says Putter.

Moss Mashishi's position as non-executive chairman of Ogilvy Africa will help Ogilvy Africa MD, John Little, to continue to build the reputation of what is already the leading network on the continent.

Current head of client services at Ogilvy Johannesburg, Nandi Scorer, has taken over Leih's responsibilities as MD of Ogilvy Johannesburg. "Apart from her extensive credentials, her energy, drive and enthusiasm has brought a new level of urgency and professionalism to our Johannesburg operations, and she was a natural choice for the job," says Putter.

Prior to joining Ogilvy Johannesburg in April 2004, Scorer enjoyed an 18 year career in advertising, having worked in research, account management and strategic planning at agencies such as BBDO, JWT, Leo Burnett and finally as MD of Red Nail. Her passion for the development of people led her to consult for a couple of years, training marketers in Africa for Unilever and The Coca-Cola Company. This was followed by an appointment as Director of Communications for the Southern and East Africa Division of The Coca-Cola Company - a responsibility that spanned 30 countries.

Scorer will be supported by Haydn Townsend, who has been promoted to deputy MD of Ogilvy Johannesburg. Townsend joined Ogilvy three and a half years ago as a strategic planner and has since won over clients with his insight and engaging manner. Putter says Townsend has a voracious appetite for a challenge and is a living example of the adage, "If you want something done, find someone busy to do it."

Putter will continue to chair the Ogilvy Worldwide Creative Council and serve on the Ogilvy Worldwide Executive Committee and will also become regional director for Africa.