Bridget Harpur, Head of Marketing for the Volkswagen Passenger Cars Brands, has been honoured with the coveted Marketing Leadership and Innovation Award at the Loeries held on 10 October 2024. This recognition marks another significant milestone in Harpur’s illustrious career and demonstrates her exceptional contributions to the Volkswagen brand and marketing in South Africa.
Bridget Harpur, a seasoned marketing professional with over two decades of experience, has demonstrated unparalleled expertise in brand development, campaign execution and team leadership. Her innovative approach to marketing has played a pivotal role in maintaining Volkswagen’s position as one of South Africa’s most awarded automotive brands for creative advertising.
Reflecting on her journey, Harpur shared: “My career started in 1998 in the advertising industry, where I held various roles across media, strategy, and account management. I worked on the Volkswagen account, and that’s where my love affair with the brand began. In 2009, I joined Volkswagen South Africa, working in marketing and sales, and then in our rental division, before returning to marketing three years ago. Our recent campaigns, such as The Blind Spot and VW Night School, have been passion projects for the team, driven by our commitment to road safety and our ability to make a difference in saving lives.”
Harpur’s work has not only made a profound impact on the South African audience but has also gained her significant industry recognition. Last year, she was named Marketer of the Year at the 2023 Assegai Awards, cementing her reputation as a leader in the competitive automotive sector. Harpur’s innovative marketing strategies continue to take the Volkswagen brand “Beyond the Drive,” making meaningful connections with consumers and driving the brand’s impact on and off the road.
Vicki Buys, Managing Director of Ogilvy South Africa, commented on the win: “Everyone across Ogilvy South Africa is ecstatic that Bridget has been recognised for her consistent belief in creative advertising that has helped drive the Volkswagen brand forward in SA. Having had the personal pleasure of working closely with Bridget for many years, I know that she’s not done yet!”
The Loeries’ Marketing Leadership and Innovation Award is given to individuals in recognition of their marketing achievements over an extended period. Notably, the first recipient of this award was former Volkswagen Group Africa’s Sales & Marketing Director, Mike Glendinning, in 2008.
Commenting on Harpur’s achievement, Glendinning said: “I’m so proud to see the Volkswagen brand continue to grow and the award come full circle. Congratulations to you, Bridget, for the unbelievable work you have done for the Volkswagen brand. Keep the magic rolling.”
Harpur’s relentless passion, creativity, and dedication have helped elevate the Volkswagen brand to new heights, making a lasting impact both within the automotive industry and beyond. Her visionary leadership has ensured that the Volkswagen brand remains one that captures the hearts of many South Africans.
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