UD Trucks SA marketing team earns international recognition

The award acknowledged the company's integrated 360 degree marketing strategy, which focused on consistent communication across multiple channels while supporting the brand's commercial objectives.

The award also highlights the role played by Marketing Director Sanelisiwe Ngcobo (photo), whose customer centred approach to marketing formed the foundation of the winning campaign and a great achievement for woman during August the official Woman’s Month.

Rather than concentrating purely on vehicle specifications, Sanelisiwe has championed a strategy that focuses on the businesses using the trucks and the value they derive from reliable transport. According to UD Trucks, the company's marketing places emphasis on understanding customers' operations, challenges and business goals before communicating how its products contribute to productivity, uptime and long term success.

Sanelisiwe believes effective marketing is about helping customers understand the practical value of engineering rather than simply generating attention.

"Marketing isn't only about creating attention, it's about creating understanding," she said. "Our role is to understand our customers' operations, challenges and ambitions, and demonstrate how UD Trucks delivers value where it matters most," she says.

She adds that customers are investing in more than a vehicle. "Customers don't simply invest in a truck. They invest in uptime, productivity and a partner they can rely on. Our role is to bring those outcomes to life through authentic storytelling."

Beyond the award itself, Sanelisiwe career reflects the growing role of women in leadership positions within the commercial vehicle sector. UD Trucks says she has benefited from leaders who encouraged her development and that she now aims to create similar opportunities for others by supporting new ideas and helping colleagues reach their potential.

Working in an industry traditionally dominated by men, Sanelisiwe believes transformation is about creating opportunities for talented people to contribute and succeed, while also bringing diverse perspectives that strengthen teams and improve customer understanding.

Reflecting on her own experience at the company, she says that at UD Trucks, she has been given the opportunity to contribute, grow and make a meaningful impact. “That's what transformation should achieve, creating an environment where people are empowered to deliver value, challenge thinking and help drive the business forward."

The international award recognises UD Trucks Southern Africa's marketing team for its work in communicating the company's customer focused approach while showcasing the value of its products through the experiences of the businesses that depend on them.