Paul Zacks new Global Brands SA GM

28 Jan 2008

Paul Zacks will lead the South African office of international brand management, retail and licensing company Global Brands Group as GM, it was announced late last week. In this capacity, Zacks will be responsible for building business and expanding licensing activity across the company's brand portfolio by working closely with retailers and manufacturers.

Paul Zacks, newly appointed GM of Global Brands Group South Africa

“We are very pleased to have Paul at the helm of the South African office,” said Simon Hawkins, SVP, licensing and sales, EMEA, Global Brands Group. “As we gear up for the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa, Paul's leadership, marketing and licensing expertise will play an integral role in the success of our branding initiatives for the most recognised and anticipated sporting events in the world.”

In 2005, FIFA entered into a long-term agreement with Global Brands Group, appointing the company as both its worldwide exclusive licensing representative and store operator for FIFA-branded retail destinations for 2007 to 2014. Additionally, Global Brands Group will act as the on-site concessionaire for all FIFA events throughout the term.

Expertise in sports branding

Zacks brings expertise in sports branding, as well as 12 years of senior and general management experience to his new role. Most recently, as MD for Canterbury International SA, Zacks worked to grow the CCC brand in SA from a little-known rugby label into a widely recognised and highly respected sports and lifestyle brand. Moreover, in just four years at the helm, Zacks tripled the company's sales force, quadrupled its turnover and increased the sales of certain CCC product categories by between 3000 and 13 233%.

In addition, Zacks introduced the performance underwear category to SA retailers and consumers, establishing the CCC Baselayer brand as the leading choice for rugby players at all levels of the game throughout the country. Prior to his work with Canterbury, Zacks held a number of senior positions with the Appleton Group, including COO – investment services and financial director prior to that.

Zacks holds two honours degrees, including a Bachelor of Business Science degree in business finance from the University of Cape Town, as well as a Bachelor of Accounting Science in accounting, tax and auditing from the University of SA. In addition, Zacks earned a post-graduate diploma in financial planning and is currently studying for an Executive Masters of Business Administration.