Known for their obsession with quality and distinctive character, The Macallan has announced their newly appointed South African brand ambassador, Thami Banda.
The position requires a combination of unparalleled knowledge of whisky and a little bit of a flair for the dramatic, which is exactly why Banda fits the bill.
“We are delighted about Thami becoming part of The Macallan family. The Macallan is well known for producing the most precious single malt whisky in the world. A whisky that challenges the traditions of whisky-making with an unwavering commitment to the highest quality, so it was inevitable to ‘pair’ ourselves with a skilful and accomplished connoisseur such as Thami” says Sanele Gwala, Edrington Regional Marketing Manager for Africa
KwaZulu-Natal born Thami Banda has a thirst for understanding and sharing his whisky knowledge. With his high-spirited personality, he has grown to become a proud whisky connoisseur and aficionado in many countries. As the first black person to distil whisky in South Africa, he has become known for his unique perspective on the mastery of spirit, which he will now share with The Macallan’s new and old fans.
While Thami didn’t follow a conventional career path, he has had a successful journey starting out as a government spokesperson before pursuing a path in whisky. Thami didn’t plan to become a whisky connoisseur and interestingly enough he was never one to consume alcohol, however that didn’t deter him from exploring the world of single malt whiskies.
Prior to The Macallan, Banda has participated in many global brand platforms focusing on product acquisition and sales volume growth. His overall portfolio includes big names such as FIFA, City of Tshwane and William Grant & Sons.
As someone who believes in doing things differently and is praised for his notable ability to articulate almost anything, Banda encourages whisky lovers who aspire to be brand ambassadors – to achieve this not only in English but also in their mother-tongue.
The South African based connoisseur is also a motivational speaker, commentator and coach on customer service and entrepreneurship with more than twenty years’ experience in customer satisfaction and consumers insights. His approach is influenced by global best practices which he uses to help local entrepreneurs.
As a result of his passion for entrepreneurship and exclusive customer experience, he has developed a Master Programme called “Double-Digit Growth in Three Years”, a programme focused on entrepreneurship, teamwork and the investor.
Commenting on his new position, Thami Banda says that he “hopes to use his unique capabilities and insights to change the way consumers experience The Macallan by taking them on the journey of the Scottish distillery in a unique and unexpected way.”
Instagram: @banda_thami Twitter: @banda_thami