Lesego Kotane Joins Machine as Managing Director

Machine enters a bold new chapter under the leadership of strategic heavyweight Lesego Kotane

Machine, a leading creative agency within Publicis Groupe Africa, is proud to announce the appointment of Lesego Kotane as its new national Managing Director.

Lesego is a seasoned leader in the creative industry, with a career that spans top strategic and executive roles across the country’s most respected agencies. He joins Machine from TBWA\ South Africa, where he served as Yellowwood Managing Director and Group Chief Strategy Officer. Prior to that, he held the position of Managing Director at King James Group.

With a reputation for combining rigorous strategic thinking with bold creative leadership, Lesego steps into his new role with a clear mission: to drive Machine’s next era of fearless, borderless creativity.

“I’ve long admired Machine. It’s a storied creative company making smart, culturally relevant work,” said Lesego. “I’m excited to partner with this incredible team and build on the strong foundation they’ve created. Our ambition is shared and together, we will make a meaningful difference for South Africa’s fearless brands.

The leadership transition follows the promotion of Robyn Campbell, who moves into the role of Senior Vice President: Communications at Publicis Groupe Africa. Robyn has been instrumental in Machine’s growth and evolution, and her elevation marks a strategic strengthening of Publicis Groupe Africa’s leadership team.
“Lesego’s arrival is a huge win for Machine,” said Robyn. “He brings a brilliant mix of strategic depth and creative drive. I’m confident he’ll take the agency to new heights.”

Jabulani Sigege, Groupe Executive Creative Director at Machine, added:

“Lesego is a rare breed of leader who deeply understands the intersection between culture, strategy and creativity. His instinct for impactful ideas and his ability to guide teams toward bold, meaningful work make him the perfect fit for Machine. I’m excited to partner with him as we keep pushing the creative edge.”

To support Lesego in this new chapter, Alex Forrester-Strydom will step into a Managing Partner role, ensuring continuity across key accounts and operational excellence.

“Alex has been a driving force behind some of Machine’s biggest wins,” said Robyn. “Her ability to balance strategic oversight with hands-on client partnership makes her the ideal leader to help steer this next phase alongside Lesego.”

As Machine continues to expand its offering and push for cultural impact, Lesego’s leadership marks an exciting next chapter in its journey.

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Author: Petra Peacock from Chimeracomms on behalf of Publicis Groupe Africa.

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