Joe Public announced that co-managing director and shareholder Khuthala Gala Holten will leave the agency on 31 October 2026, bringing to a close a remarkable 20-year tenure that began when she joined in 2006.
Khuthala's story is one Joe Public is proud to tell. She joined in 2006 and rose through the ranks to co-managing director and shareholder, a path that reflects the agency's belief in growing its people. Over two decades, she became known for building partnerships that last, leading key client relationships including Nedbank, AB InBev and Unilever, and championing creativity that delivers real business growth.
"Khuthala has been part of the fabric of Joe Public for twenty years. Clients trusted her because she understood their businesses as deeply as her own, and some of our most valued partnerships carry her fingerprints. She leaves behind relationships, people and a standard of care that will keep shaping this agency. We are grateful, and we can't wait to see what she does next," said Gareth Leck, Group CEO of Joe Public.
"Great work needs a champion in the room, and for two decades Khuthala was that champion. She backed brave ideas because she believed they were the surest route to growth for our clients. The creative department will miss her," said Xolisa Dyeshana, chief creative officer of Joe Public.
Reflecting on her time at the agency, Khuthala Gala Holten said, "It's been an extraordinary journey of growth, learning and collaboration. I've had the privilege of working with exceptional people and clients, building brands, tackling complex business challenges and seeing first-hand the greatness of creativity to grow people and businesses. I'm deeply grateful to the Joe Public family for the experiences and relationships that have shaped me."
Joe Public is managing a planned handover of Khuthala's client portfolio to ensure continuity for every client.
Joe Public thanks Khuthala for her immense contribution and wishes her every success.
