Pn Phungula

Results-driven communications and marketing professional with over 12 years of experience spanning municipal government communications, print media, live events, and media consultancy. Proven track record in building institutional profiles, managing multi-stakeholder relationships, driving sponsorship revenue, and delivering high-impact campaigns. Deep expertise in South African public sector communications, indigenous language media, and large-scale event management.

Equally effective as a strategic leader and hands-on executer.

Founder & Commercial Director at Siqalokuhle Trading Enterprise (SQ Media) (2014-04 – Present)

Media and communications consultancy based in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, specialising in event marketing, sponsorship management, and institutional communications.

• Led end-to-end marketing and promotions strategy for two consecutive years
• Secured and managed major corporate sponsorships from national brands
• Managed electronic and print media advertising scheduling, editorial coverage, and on-air interviews
• Conceptualised and executed promotional roadshows to drive ticket sales and public awareness
• Planned and managed media launches, press packs, branding, and goodie bags
• Oversaw event hospitality, SMS competition lines, and social media campaign coordination
• Recruited, trained, and managed promoter staff
• Ensured brand harmony and measurable ROI for all sponsors

Head of Communications at Umvoti Local Municipality (2017-01 – 2023-06)

Led all communications, media, and stakeholder engagement functions for a KwaZulu-Natal local municipality, reporting to the Municipal Manager and Office of the Mayor.

• Developed and implemented short- and long-term media and communication strategies
• Compiled and distributed press releases; responded to daily media queries
• Created and managed content for all platforms: newsletters, publications, website, and social media
• Drafted official speeches, public documents, and council communications
• Raised the municipality's public profile through internal and external media events
• Conducted media training for elected councillors, directors, and senior management
• Evaluated media coverage and produced reports for operational and committee purposes
• Maintained the institutional image of Umvoti Local Municipality across all stakeholder touchpoints
• Liaised across departments to develop proactive communication plans aligned to business objectives

Marketing & Promotions Manager at Ingede Newspaper (Gcinabasha Trading) (2016-01 – 2016-12)

• Planned and coordinated promotional campaigns to grow readership and brand awareness
• Negotiated sponsorship agreements for competitions, special offers, and events
• Organised in-store promotions with retailers to drive circulation and foot traffic
• Planned and executed Ingede roadshows and strategic event sponsorships
• Ensured pre- and post-event editorial coverage for all activations
• Served as brand ambassador for Ingede newspaper

Marketing & Promotions Coordinator at Lethulwazi & Zinosa Productions (2014-04 – 2014-05)

Stage production: Have We Been Heard — ICC Durban. Sponsors: Mnet/Mzansi Magic, Gagasi FM, Isolezwe, KZN Community Radio Stations, Premier's Office, eThekwini Municipality.

• Managed sponsorship budget and media scheduling across print, electronic, and community radio
• Coordinated promotional roadshows to drive ticket sales and public awareness
• Handled flight and accommodation logistics for cast and celebrity talent
• Recruited and trained promoter staff; managed ticket sales operations
• Coordinated media launch, branding, press pack, and goodie bag
• Ensured all sponsor commitments were honoured across all promotional communications

Marketing & Promotions Officer at ILanga Newspaper (2012-01 – 2014-03)

• Devised and coordinated promotional campaigns, roadshows, and events for one of South Africa's leading isiZulu-language newspapers
• Identified and implemented strategic event sponsorships and CSI drives
• Organised in-store promotions with retailers to increase newspaper circulation and foot traffic
• Managed school tours, school programmes, and reader query channels
• Ensured editorial coverage pre- and post-marketing initiatives
• Submitted weekly performance reports to the Commercial Manager
• Safeguarded all company branding; served as official brand ambassador

Customer Service Executive at Avis Fleet Services (2008-03 – 2010-07)

• Managed client accounts and queries relating to leased and fleet vehicles
• Drafted quotations for prospective clients; calculated fleet reassessments and settlements
• Advised clients on optimal fleet management solutions
• Compiled and submitted monthly vehicle schedules to fleet managers
• Organised year-end client functions and recorded meeting minutes

Diploma in Public Relations Management – University of South Africa (UNISA) (2025-2026)

National Senior Certificate in Matric – St Benedict High School (2006)