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IMM Institute Excellence awards

The IMM Institute, through the Excellence Awards, recognises contributions to the industry by bold brands and individuals who displayed thought leadership and commitment to excellence in the arts of marketing and supply chain.

The Excellence Awards is not just a celebration, it’s a moment of inspiration, learning, and growth. This year, we are proud to welcome Pat Mahlangu, an award-winning marketer, media entrepreneur, and industry leader, as our keynote speaker.

IMM Institute Excellence awards

The IMM Institute, through the Excellence Awards, recognises contributions to the industry by bold brands and individuals who displayed thought leadership and commitment to excellence in the arts of marketing, supply chain, and business. Join us for an unforgettable evening of celebration, where we honour their outstanding achievements.

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain actionable insights from one of South Africa’s most influential marketing minds, who brings:

Expert Industry Insights

With 12+ years of experience in marketing and media, Pat will share powerful strategies for brand growth, PR, and digital excellence.

Youth Empowerment & Industry Leadership

With 12+ years of experience in marketing and media, Pat will share powerful strategies for brand growth, PR, and digital excellence.

Entrepreneurial Success & Innovation

Founder of leading PR and digital creative agency helping businesses build lasting brand connections.

Academic & Thought Leadership

A former lecturer at UJ and Boston Media House and co-author of The Book Every Marketer Should Most Definitely Read, Pat brings cutting-edge knowledge and practical insights.

Award-Winning Recognition

Recognised as the IMM Institute’s 2003 Emerging Marketer of the Year and one of Sunday World’s Unsung Heroes in Entrepreneurship, Pat’s journey is one of impact, resilience, and success.

The IMM Institute Excellence Awards will be hosted at the Maslow Sandton in partnership with Sun International.

The IMM Institute Excellence Awards is not just a celebration, it’s a moment of inspiration, learning, and growth. This year, we are proud to welcome Pat Mahlangu, an award-winning marketer, media entrepreneur, and industry leader, as our keynote speaker.

7 March 2025 | 19:00

Register To Attend

Booking Fee: R 1 550.00 per person

Associates of the IMM Institute qualify for a special discount.

Bronze Level: 5% | Silver Level: 10% | Gold Level: 15% | Platinum Level: 30%

Our Esteemed Media Partners Shining the Spotlight on the Excellence Awards

THE EXCELLENCE Awards Judges

Thobekile Nxumalo

Head of Supply Chain at Iqbusiness
A seasoned professional with exceptional expertise in shaping national supply chain strategies and conducting operational readiness assessments.
Read Bio

Ronald Mlalazi

Managing Director at Commerce Edge
An accomplished procurement professional who has attained the prestigious Fellow status at the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS).
Read Bio

Ronald Muringai

Head Lecturer of Supply Chain Management at IMM Graduate School
A seasoned international manager with over 15 years of experience in FMCG, key account management, corporate sales and academia.
Read Bio

Lethabo Sekhu

Co-founder and COO at Credipple
An experienced architect with a strong background in the marketing and advertising industry, Lethabo is a professional in guiding projects from conceptualisation to execution and post-production.
Read Bio

Brad Watridge

Senior Partner, Marketing & Sales Strategist at Hot Mustard Africa
Brad Watridge is a published co-author and senior partner in a group of companies, passionate about exploring success stories across Southern Africa, supporting SMMEs, and blending strategic creativity with integrity to drive business and personal growth
Read Bio

Pat Mahlangu

Founder and CEO at Lerato Agency
Pat Mahlangu is an award-winning marketing and media entrepreneur, and the founder of Pat on Brands, a digital platform at the forefront of brand insights.
Read Bio

Mpumi Zondi

Head of Brand Africa & Global Client Lead at Edelman
Mpumi's hands-on experience includes co-founding Dona Communications and partnering in a digital and design start-up, giving him a deep understanding of brand strategy, innovation, and market influence.
Read Bio

Phumelele Zulu

Marketing Director at RS for South and Sub-Saharan Africa
Phumelele Zulu is a strategic marketing leader and RS South Africa’s Marketing Director, driving innovation and growth across Sub-Saharan Africa. She is passionate about diversity, mentorship, and industry transformation.
Read Bio

Nominations are Open!

Submit Your Nomination
View Awards 2025 Brochure

Award Nomination deadline: 31 December 2024

Award Nomination deadline:
31 December 2024

Marketing Excellence Awards

Marketing
Excellence Awards

Marketing Student
of the Year

Acknowledging the outstanding achievements of marketing students who are the future of our industry.

See Criteria

Emerging Marketer
of the Year

Recognising the rising star in marketing who has shown exceptional promise and potential.

See Criteria

Marketer
of the Year

Celebrating the individual marketer who has demonstrated excellence in their field.

See Criteria

Corporate Marketing Team of the Year

Honouring the collaborative efforts of a high-performing marketing team within a corporation.

See Criteria

Lifetime Achievement
MArketing Award

Celebrating a seasoned professional's lifelong contribution to the marketing industry.

See Criteria

Supply Chain Excellence Awards

Supply Chain
Excellence Awards

Supply Chain Student
of the Year

Acknowledging the outstanding achievements of supply chain students who are the future of our industry.

See Criteria

Supply Chain Professional
of the Year

Celebrating the individual who has demonstrated excellence in the supply chain industry.

See Criteria

Corporate Supply Chain Team of the Year

Honouring the collaborative efforts of a high-performing supply chain team within a corporation.

See Criteria

Lifetime Achievement
Supply Chain Award

Celebrating a seasoned professional's lifelong contribution to the supply chain industry.

See Criteria

Business Excellence Awards

Business
Excellence Awards

Entrepreneur
of the Year

Celebrating the individual who has demonstrated entrepreneurial excellence in the business world.

See Criteria
View Awards 2025 Brochure
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See 2023 Finalists
2023 Awards Gallery

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Thobekile Nxumalo's Bio

Thobekile Nxumalo is a seasoned supply chain professional with over a decade of experience in driving impactful projects across diverse industries. Currently leading key initiatives at a management consulting firm, she began her career as a solution analyst, collaborating with supply chain and design teams to develop innovative solutions. Her expertise spans regional logistics, warehouse optimization, and integrated supply chain strategies, with a strong focus on continuous improvement and operational excellence.

As a technical advisor on national supply chain strategies, Thobekile has played a pivotal role in transformative projects, particularly within the public healthcare sector. Her contributions extend across Africa, where she has led strategic initiatives that deliver measurable value. With a deep commitment to excellence and a talent for navigating complex challenges, she brings a wealth of knowledge and industry insight to the IMM Institute Excellence Awards judging panel.

See LinkedIn Profile

Ronald Mlalazi's Bio

As an accomplished procurement professional, Ronald holds an MBA from Mancosa and a Master’s degree in Procurement and Supply Chain Management from South Wales University (UK). With a career dedicated to advancing the field of procurement, Ronald has served as the CIPS Congress Representative for Africa for six years, actively contributing to the professional development of procurement practitioners across the continent.

His impact extends beyond professional organisations, as he has significantly contributed to academic and industry advancements. He has also developed curriculum frameworks for leading institutions like the Da Vinci Institute and Stellenbosch Business School, shaping the next generation of procurement leaders.

Ronald’s expertise is highly sought by government entities, where he has presented on key industry topics to senior officials, emphasising the strategic importance of supply chain management in economic development.

See LinkedIn Profile

Ronald Muringai's Bio

A seasoned international manager with 15+ years of experience in FMCG, key account management, corporate sales and academia. Ronald has vast experience in supply chain, procurement, logistics, change management and programme management. He brings with him a proven track record for enhancing business processes, increasing revenue performance and maximising shareholder value.

Specialities: Supply Chain, Logistics, Business Development, Business Optimisation, Cost Control, and Performance Management.

See LinkedIn Profile

Lethabo Sekhu's Bio

Lethabo Sekhu is the Co-founder and Chief Operating Officer at Credipple, bringing a wealth of experience in marketing, advertising, and event execution. He has a proven track record of successfully
managing BTL campaigns, experiential events, and brand activations.

Before co-founding Credipple in 2017, Lethabo served as an Event Producer at SPACE.™, a leading through-the-line (TTL) advertising and media company. In this role, he executed high-impact campaigns
and experiential events for prestigious luxury brands, including BMW, MINI, Montblanc, IWC, Audi, Roger Dubuis, and Tom Ford.

See LinkedIn Profile

Brad Watridge's Bio

With over 27 years of experience, Brad Watridge is passionate about uncovering diverse success stories across Southern Africa. He works strategically with businesses of all sizes, with a strong focus on B2B and championing the growth of SMMEs. Committed to driving business growth and personal development, he upholds integrity and firmly opposes superficial displays and corruption.

 

As a senior partner in a group of companies, Brad actively supports initiatives that foster the success and sustainability of SMMEs. He advocates for a balance between innovation and the art of storytelling in business, ensuring meaningful and lasting impact.

See LinkedIn Profile

Pat Mahlangu's Bio

With over 12 years of experience, Pat holds a BCom, BCom Honours, and MCom from the University of Johannesburg, and is an internationally certified digital marketer. As an academic, he lectured at the University of Johannesburg and Boston Media House.  In 2020, he launched Lerato Agency – a PR and Digital Creative Agency with a purpose to craft brands that people love. Pat co-authored The Book Every Marketer Should Most Definitely Read, which was recently published.

He is committed to youth empowerment, creating the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards. Pat has served on various industry bodies, including IAB South Africa, AMASA,  and Brand Africa. He is the Advisory Board Member for the Consumer Excellence Awards South Africa. In 2023, he was named one of the Top 200 Young South Africans by Mail & Guardian and was honoured as the Emerging Marketer of the Year by IMM. Sunday World named him as one of the Unsung Heroes in Entrepreneurship and he is Brand South Africa’s Play Your Part Ambassador.

See LinkedIn Profile

Mpumi Zondi's Bio

A passionate and dynamic marketing professional, Mpumi brings over 20 years of expertise in brand marketing, advertising, public relations, and digital strategy. With experience across local and global markets, he has led creative campaigns, influence strategies, and business development initiatives that drive impactful results.

As a co-founder of Dona Communications—later integrated into the Bester Berg Slingers group—Mpumi has firsthand experience in building purpose-driven brands. His deep understanding of brand strategy, consumer engagement, and market influence makes him a valuable judge for the IMM Institute Excellence Awards. With a keen eye for innovation and impact, Mpumi will assess entries with a focus on creativity, strategic thinking, and meaningful brand influence in today’s competitive landscape.

See LinkedIn Profile

Phumelele Zulu's Bio

Phumelele Zulu is a seasoned marketing professional with over 15 years of experience in brand development, customer engagement, and impactful storytelling. She currently serves as the Marketing Director for RS South Africa, overseeing operations across South and Sub-Saharan Africa. In this role, Phumelele leads award-winning teams and campaigns, driving innovation and market growth. Her strategic vision and leadership have been instrumental in positioning RS South Africa as a key player in the region’s industrial and electronics sectors.

Beyond her corporate responsibilities, Phumelele is a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusive growth. She actively mentors emerging talent and collaborates with industry bodies to elevate the African market. Her commitment to shaping the future of the industry is further demonstrated through her recent appointment as a Professional Associate at the IMM Institute. Armed with an MBA and multiple marketing qualifications, Phumelele continues to break barriers and champion innovation, making a lasting impact on the marketing landscape in Africa.

See LinkedIn Profile

Marketing Student of the Year

  • Resume or CV
  • Letters of Recommendation/ Testimonials.
  • High-resolution Picture
  • Social Media Handles
  • Transcripts: Provide academic transcripts to demonstrate the student's academic performance and achievement in marketing-related courses.
  • Marketing Projects and Campaigns: Submit examples of marketing projects, campaigns, or initiatives the student has undertaken, along with explanations of their roles and contributions.
  • Personal Statement or Essay
  • Extracurricular Involvement: Detail the student's involvement in marketing-related extracurricular activities, including memberships in marketing clubs or associations and their participation in marketing-related events.

Emerging Marketer of the Year

  • Resume or CV
  • High-resolution Picture
  • Social Media Handles
  • Letters of Recommendation/ Testimonials.
  • Portfolio of Work: marketing materials, or digital content.
  • Media and Publications: If the candidate has been featured in industry publications, news articles, or interviews, include links or copies of these media mentions
  • Optional Supplementary Materials: Include any additional materials, such as videos, presentations, or samples of marketing collateral, that can further demonstrate the candidate's expertise
  • Extracurricular Involvement: Detail the student's involvement in marketing-related extracurricular activities, including memberships in marketing clubs or associations and their participation in marketing-related events

Marketer of the Year

  • Resume or CV
  • High-resolution Picture
  • Social Media Handles
  • Letters of Recommendation/ Testimonials.
  • Portfolio of Work: marketing materials, or digital content.
  • Media and Publications: If the candidate has been featured in industry publications, news articles, or interviews, include links or copies of these media mentions
  • Optional Supplementary Materials: Include any additional materials, such as videos, presentations, or samples of marketing collateral, that can further demonstrate the candidate's expertise

Corporate Marketing Team of the Year

  • Team Overview: Provide a concise overview of the marketing team, including the number of team members, their roles, and their collective expertise
  • Team's Mission and Objectives: Describe the team's mission, goals, and objectives, aligning them with the organisation's overall marketing strategy and business objectives
  • Achievements and Results Report: Include a detailed report that outlines the team's achievements and results, such as revenue growth, market share increase, lead generation, and ROI. Use data and metrics to support these achievements
  • Campaign Portfolio: Compile a portfolio of the team's most significant marketing campaigns and initiatives, providing details on objectives, strategies, creative elements, and results achieved
  • Innovative Marketing Strategies: Describe any innovative marketing strategies or approaches developed and implemented by the team, with examples of their impact.
  • Brand Management Documentation: Showcase how the team has managed and enhanced the company's brand identity and reputation, including brand guidelines and examples of branding materials
  • Long-Term Impact Report: Analyse the team's contributions to the company's long-term growth, sustainability, and market leadership through its marketing efforts
  • Letters of Recommendation: Encourage submission of letters of recommendation from senior management, colleagues, or clients who can attest to the team's capabilities and achievements

Lifetime Achievement Marketing Award

  • High resolution Picture
  • Social Media Handles
  • Letters of Recommendation/ Testimonials.
  • Portfolio of Work: marketing materials, or digital content
  • Media and Publications: If the candidate has been featured in industry publications, news articles, or interviews, include links or copies of these media mentions
  • Optional Supplementary Materials: Include any additional materials, such as videos, presentations, or samples of marketing collateral

Supply Chain Student of the Year

  • Resume or CV
  • High-resolution Picture
  • Social Media Handles
  • Letters of Recommendation / Testimonials
  • Transcripts: Provide academic transcripts to demonstrate the student’s academic performance and achievement in supply chain related courses
  • Portfolio of Work: Submit examples of supply chain projects or initiatives the students has undertaken, along with explanations of their roles and contributions
  • Personal Statement or Essay
  • Extracurricular Involvement: Detail the student’s involvement in supply chain related extracurricular activities, including memberships in clubs or associations and their participation in supply chain related event

Supply Chain Professional of the Year

  • Resume or CV
  • High-resolution picture
  • Social Media Handles
  • Letters of Recommendation/ Testimonials
  • Portfolio of Work: marketing materials, or digital content
  • Media and Publications: If the candidate has been featured in industry publications, news articles, or interviews, include links or copies of these media mentions
  • Optional Supplementary Materials: Include any additional materials, such as videos, presentations, or samples of marketing collateral, that can further demonstrate the candidate's expertise

Corporate Supply Chain Team of the Year

  • Team Overview: Provide a concise overview of the supply chain team, including the number of team members, their roles, and their collective expertise
  • Team’s Mission and Objectives: Describe the team’s mission, goals, and objectives, aligning them with the organisation’s overall supply chain strategy and business objectives
  • Achievements and Results Report: Include a detailed report that outlines the team’s achievements and results, such as operational efficiency, cost management, customer satisfaction, sustainability and environmental impact, risk management and resilience, financial performance, compliance and quality assurance.
  • Portfolio: Compile a portfolio of the team’s most significant initiatives, strategies or approaches developed and implemented, providing details on objectives, strategies and results achieved.
  • Long-Term Impact Report: Analyse the team’s contributions to the company’s long-term growth, sustainability, and market leadership through its supply chain efforts.
  • Letter of Recommendation: Encourage submission of letters of recommendation from senior management, colleagues, or clients who can attest to the team’s capabilities and achievements.

Lifetime Achievement Supply Chain Award

  • High-resolution Picture
  • Social Media Handles
  • Letters of Recommendation/ Testimonials
  • Portfolio of Work: Key projects, innovation and improvement initiatives, and evidence of leadership
  • Media and Publications: If the candidate has been featured in industry publications, news articles, or interviews, include links or copies of these media mentions
  • Optional Supplementary Materials: Include any additional materials, such as videos, presentations, or samples of supply chain collateral

Entrepreneur of the Year

  • CV of the Nominee
  • Personal Qualities and Professionalism: Document the Nominee’s commitment to personal and professional development. Include examples of high ethical standards and integrity in business practices
  • Business Overview: Provide a concise overview of the business, including the mission, goals, and objectives of the business, the related industry, the number of team members, years in operation and plans for expansion. Highlight any community service engagement, and/or evidence of sustainability practices
  • Business Growth and Performance: Present data showing increased market share or expansion into new markets. Highlight improvements in profit margins or overall profitability. Describe any innovative products or services introduced by the nominee. Include patents, trademarks, or awards received for innovation
  • Media and Publications: If the Nominee has been featured in industry publications, news articles, or interviews, include links or copies of these media mentions. List any previous industry awards
  • Personal and Business Social Media Handles
  • Letters of Recommendation / Testimonials