GWM South Africa is pleased to announce the appointment of Hannes Oosthuizen as its Brand and Product Development Manager.
Oosthuizen will join GWM from CAR magazine, the industry’s leading motoring publication, where he has served as Editor for the past two-and-a-half years and previously held positions of Deputy and Associate Editor in a twelve-year long, high-profile media career.
He is currently the only South African serving on the respected WCOTY (World Car of the Year) jury and was also rated as one of the Top 40 Media Professionals under 40 by South Africa’s The Media magazine last year. He brings vast media, communications and motor industry experience and knowledge to the most successful Chinese automotive brand in South Africa.
“I’ve monitored GWM’s local performance with great interest from its arrival on the scene in 2007,” said Oosthuizen, “and I believe it’s a brand with a great future. Being the Editor of CAR magazine was a life-long ambition, and making this career change into the motor industry is not a decision I made lightly. However, I believe GWM is putting the correct resources in place in South Africa and abroad and, with a big focus on Research and Development, the future generation of products will raise many a local eyebrow. GWM has already convinced me that it’s a brand that’s going places. Now it’s my job to convince the public. I’m thrilled and honoured to be a part of this exciting and challenging journey.”
Tony Pinfold, chairman of GWM South Africa, stated that he is very excited about Hannes joining the GWM Family. “In his new position he will be tasked with managing and expanding GWM’s product portfolio and building the brand’s image in all respects”.
He added; “His appointment is further evidence of an on-going commitment to the South African market and that GWM will continue with its promise to offer affordable, quality vehicles. Hannes has vast knowledge of the S.A. motor industry and its various products and we plan to utilise this to the full.”
Hannes joins the team in June and will be based at the GWM Cape Town regional office.
