The organisers of the
MOST Awards have identified Primedia Unlimited CEO, Ken Varejes, as the MOST deserving industry member of the desired 'Sales Legend' accolade.
On receiving the award Varejes said: “Being chosen ‘Sales Legend’ by my peers is a huge honour, I’m absolutely thrilled. I’ve always lived by the credo that if you’re passionate about what you do, it’s not really work, I’m having the time of my life.”
Varejes is renowned for his enthusiasm; drive; and larger-than-life passion for media innovation. His career in marketing began with the SABC in Durban as Advertising Manager for radio in Natal. One and a half years later Ken was promoted to National Marketing Manager: Radio and Television and relocated to Johannesburg. He then took over as Senior Marketing Manager for SABC’s then TV1.
Gordon Patterson, Managing Director of Starcom said: “Ken is an amazing man. Over the past 20 years that I've known and engaged with Ken he has certainly grown, developed, and become an industry statesman. Even as he has progressed he's never lost his unique passion; commitment; loyalty; and entrepreneurial spirit – these are stronger today than ever.
Many people say Ken is a relationship man, I disagree; from my perspective he's an action man who builds relationships on performance delivery.... not lunches!”
During his career, Varejes has pioneered numerous sustainable media options to the South African market - notably, ComutaNet’s growth into South Africa’s leading commuter advertising organisation under his helm as Managing Director from 1997 - 2003. His ability to break through the ‘traditional media-only’ mindset was rewarded by his appointment as COO of Primedia’s Out of Home and Commuter Media Divisions in 2003, before taking the helm and starting up Primedia Unlimited at the end of 2004.
Michelle Meyjes, CEO of the MEC Group of companies reflects on her experience with Varejes. “My first dealings with Ken were over 20 years ago when he was at Airtime Sales at the SABC. I have watched him progress; succeed; and achieve great heights over that period. It's been a privilege working with Ken and we're all richer for having dealt with a man of such true inspiration. His business ventures have always reflected his leadership qualities.
"Ken has always displayed true vision, he's an entrepreneur through and through. I have to commend him as a true salesman – I’ve seen him on many an occasion sell 'ice in winter'. He's unstoppable, never accepts a negative outcome and never 'switches off'!What’s more – he always spots the golden opportunity that so many others miss. Whilst he may appear totally engrossed in a conversation, believe me, his head is planning the next move.
Ken is committed beyond the call of duty, he’s a truly passionate individual and above all a real mensch who loves what he does for a living and is loved by all. Our industry is richer for having someone of his calibre dedicating so many quality years to our industry.”
The
MOST Awards recognises excellence in media owner marketing and sales. The ‘
Lifetime Achiever’ Award was sponsored by The MediaShop.
For more information, visit
www.primedia-unlimited.co.za.