media update’s Aisling McCarthy chatted to Mokoena about his new role and his road to success.

How does it feel to be at the helm of one of South Africa’s biggest agencies?

Being the CEO of Ogilvy & Mather South Africa is a dream job for me. The people that I lead, the clients we serve, the suppliers we partner with, and the brands we look after all make for an awesome experience. It is a real privilege to captain this team.

What are you hoping to achieve now that you have been appointed as CEO?

Having been on the Ogilvy & Mather South Africa board and exco for the past 3 years, I have helped shape our growth strategy, so there will be a lot of consistency going forward. Our priority is to cement our position as a nimble, digitally led growth partner to our clients.

Everything we do, from the agency operations to the creative product, is in service of our clients’ growth agenda. When our clients’ businesses grow, we grow.

What did you learn in your time working with Ogilvy’s previous CEO, Abey Mokgwatsane?

One of the principles that David Ogilvy has left us with, is that a fun environment enables a creative spirit to thrive.

Mokgwatsane and his predecessor, Nunu Ntshingila, were instrumental in driving a fun culture that supports creative excellence. My intention is to build on that.

You are a qualified lawyer, with both an MBA and Chartered Marketing qualifications. What made you want to venture into the advertising world?

Lawyers, like advertising professionals, are problem solvers and purveyors of hope. Problem-solving, as we all well know, is a creative art.

I’m lucky that I have been trained in both professions, and my role as CEO of Ogilvy & Mather South Africa draws on both these competencies.

What do you think makes a good leader?

A good leader defines and articulates a vision that inspires others. A good leader understands that theirs is to serve others, not to rule over them.

For more information, visit www.ogilvy.co.za.

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Advertising awards, such as Cannes and Loeries, give agencies like Ogilvy & Mather the opportunity to showcase and celebrate their creativity. Read more in our article, Four advertising trends from TBWA’s Festival of Creativity.