The Best 15 Social Media Marketing Experts in South Africa

In today’s digitally-driven world, social media marketing has become an essential tool for businesses looking to expand their reach and connect with their audiences. South Africa, with its vibrant and diverse online community, is home to some of the most innovative and effective social media marketing experts. These professionals combine local insights with global trends to create impactful strategies that drive engagement and deliver results. This article explores the top social media marketing experts in South Africa who are setting new standards in the industry.

Khensani Nobanda

Company: Nedbank

Khensani Nobanda is a respected marketing leader who serves as Group Executive: Marketing and Corporate Affairs at Nedbank. She has played a pivotal role in transforming the bank’s brand and driving digital innovation in the financial sector. With extensive experience across top South African companies, Khensani is known for her strategic vision and inclusive leadership style. She is also a passionate advocate for diversity and empowerment within the industry.

Sydney Mbhele

Company: Absa

Sydney Mbhele holds a key leadership position at Absa, where he is responsible for steering the brand and marketing strategy for one of Africa’s leading financial institutions. With over two decades of experience in brand management and marketing, he has worked across multiple industries including FMCG and financial services. Sydney is known for his innovative approach to customer engagement and brand transformation. He frequently speaks on topics of leadership, branding, and the future of African business.

Vaughan Croeser

Company: AB InBev

Vaughan Croeser is a marketing executive at AB InBev, the world’s largest brewer. He has been instrumental in shaping the marketing strategies for iconic beer brands in the African market. Vaughan is recognized for his creativity and data-driven approach, leveraging consumer insights to drive brand growth. He is passionate about mentorship and developing the next generation of marketing leaders.

Doug Place

Company: Nando’s

Doug Place is the Chief Marketing Officer of Nando’s, renowned for its bold and irreverent marketing campaigns. Under his leadership, Nando’s has become a beloved household name, noted for its creativity and social commentary. Doug is celebrated for his out-of-the-box thinking and willingness to challenge the status quo. He is a sought-after speaker on branding, marketing innovation, and leadership.

Nontokozo Madonsela

Company: Momentum Metropolitan

Nontokozo Madonsela is a seasoned marketing executive at Momentum Metropolitan, where she drives the group’s integrated marketing strategy. She brings a wealth of experience from the insurance and financial services sectors, with a strong focus on customer-centricity. Nontokozo is committed to fostering diversity and innovation within her teams. She is recognized as a thought leader in marketing and brand management in South Africa.

Firoze Bhorat

Company: Discovery Limited

Firoze Bhorat is the Chief Marketing Officer at Discovery Limited, a leading South African financial services group. He has played a pivotal role in building Discovery’s brand both locally and internationally. Firoze is known for his strategic insight, innovative marketing campaigns, and ability to drive business growth. He is passionate about leveraging technology and data to deliver impactful customer experiences.

Abey Mokgwatsane

Company: Investec

Abey Mokgwatsane is an accomplished marketing executive at Investec, where he leads brand and marketing initiatives for the global specialist bank. Previously, he held leadership roles at Ogilvy and Hollard, showcasing his versatility across sectors. Abey is known for championing creative excellence and transformation in the marketing industry. He is a mentor and advocate for emerging talent in Africa’s creative sector.

Zibusiso Mkhwanazi

Company: M&N Brands

Zibusiso Mkhwanazi is the Group CEO of M&N Brands, a leading African holding company in the marketing and communications space. He is an award-winning entrepreneur who has built and led several successful agencies. Zibusiso is dedicated to growing African brands and nurturing local talent. His leadership is marked by a strong commitment to innovation and transformation in the advertising industry.

Gil Oved

Company: The Creative Counsel

Gil Oved is the co-founder and co-CEO of The Creative Counsel, one of South Africa’s largest advertising agencies. He has built a reputation as a visionary entrepreneur and business leader, driving innovation in the marketing sector. Gil is also known for his television appearances, including as a ‘Dragon’ on Dragon’s Den South Africa. He is passionate about entrepreneurship, mentoring, and the growth of Africa’s creative economy.

Mimi Kalinda

Company: Africa Communications Media Group

Mimi Kalinda is the CEO and co-founder of Africa Communications Media Group, a pan-African public relations and communications agency. She is an expert in reputation management, storytelling, and strategic communications across the continent. Mimi is a sought-after keynote speaker and advocate for positive African narratives. Her work focuses on empowering African voices and brands on the global stage.

Nunu Ntshingila-Njeke

Company: Meta

Nunu Ntshingila-Njeke is the Head of Meta (Facebook) Africa, where she leads the company’s strategy and operations across the continent. With a rich background in advertising and marketing, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the digital landscape in Africa. Nunu is a trailblazer for women in tech and business, regularly recognized for her leadership and influence. She champions digital inclusion and innovation throughout Africa.

Shaka Sisulu

Company: Plum Factory

Shaka Sisulu is an entrepreneur and social activist, currently leading Plum Factory, a creative solutions company. He has a background in media, technology, and social development, and is known for his work in driving social impact initiatives. Shaka is also a respected public speaker and author, often addressing issues of youth empowerment and innovation. His work bridges the worlds of business and social change in South Africa.

Deshnie Govender

Company: TikTok

Deshnie Govender is a leading digital marketing strategist at TikTok, focusing on the platform’s growth and engagement in Africa. She has extensive experience in digital content, influencer marketing, and brand partnerships. Deshnie is recognized for her innovative approach to storytelling and audience engagement. She is passionate about empowering creators and brands to harness the power of short-form video content.

Hardlife Muhamba

Company: Multiple Businesses

Hardlife Muhamba is a dynamic entrepreneur managing multiple businesses across various sectors. He is known for his resilience and innovative approach to business growth in challenging environments. Hardlife’s ventures span technology, marketing, and social enterprise, reflecting his diverse interests and skills. He is committed to creating opportunities and driving positive change in his community.

Herman Singh

Company: Multiple Businesses

Herman Singh is a renowned business leader, educator, and entrepreneur with interests in multiple businesses. He has held senior positions in major corporations and is a sought-after advisor on innovation and digital transformation. Herman is also a respected academic, lecturing on business strategy and technology. He is passionate about nurturing future leaders and driving digital disruption in Africa.

Conclusion

Choosing the right social media marketing expert can make a significant difference in your brand’s online presence and growth. The experts highlighted in this article have demonstrated exceptional skill, creativity, and a deep understanding of the South African market. By partnering with these professionals, businesses can harness the full potential of social media to achieve their marketing goals and stay ahead of the competition in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.