By Malusi Msomi

Today ISUZU South Africa announced the appointment of Penelope Mkhwanazi as the Senior Vice President for Revenue Generation Rest of Africa and International Markets. In her new role, Penelope is responsible for all revenue generation in the Rest of Africa markets, including Sales and Aftersales.

Penelope has over 20 years of work experience in a variety of industries including manufacturing, mining, construction, fast-moving consumer goods, and entrepreneurship. She has held positions such as Executive Head Customer Fulfilment for Barloworld Equipment Southern Africa, Country Manager and Director for Zambia Barloworld Equipment, and General Manager Free State Lesotho.

Penelope says, “I join Isuzu at a very exciting and transformative time where our call to action is that of breakthrough and growth. The rest of Africa markets are our greatest opportunity to fulfil this call to action. I am humbled to be part of this journey and confident that the Isuzu team will relentlessly, and with passion, answer this call to action”.

Penny graduated with a BSc (Biochemistry and Microbiology) from Wits University in 2002 and a Management Development Programme from Cyril Ramaphosa World of Learning in 2003. In 2003, she received a brewing qualification from the Institute and Guild of Brewing of London, and in 2006, she received a Master Brewer Diploma from the same institution.

Penny earned a PMI Certified Associate in Project Management qualification in 2009 and an MBA from GIBS in 2011. Penny’s most prestigious awards include her (A+) grade for her thesis, Conspicuous Consumption and Black Youth in Emerging Markets; her GIBS Nomination Shortlist Association of MBAs; receiving the DELL Financial Services Award in Information and Knowledge Management; achieving the Organizational Design and Transformation Award; and receiving The Evolution of Strategic Thinking and Scenario Planning Award.

President and CEO of IMSAf Billy Tom, says the Isuzu leadership is delighted to welcome Penny on board. “Her vision for the business and extensive experience across the various sectors make her ideally suited to lead and build the long-term growth and sustainability of IMSAf in African markets.”