IAB SA says that Mantle steps into the role following the tenure of Pierre Cassuto, CMO of Humanz, who guided the committee through pivotal initiatives, including the release of the Influencer Marketing White Paper — dedicated to educating the industry about best practice — and the South African Content Creator Charter — dedicated to ensuring fair and safe disclosure to consumers.

The committee remains committed to driving thought leadership, industry collaboration and impactful influencer marketing practices in South Africa, adds IAB SA. 

"It's been a privilege to serve as Chair of the IAB Influencer Marketing Committee, and I'm excited to pass the torch to Casey Mantle," says Cassuto. "I have no doubt that under Casey's leadership, the committee will continue its work in elevating the industry and creating meaningful change for both brands and creators."

The committee's focus for 2025 will remain on educating the industry and producing valuable resources. Upcoming projects include the continued promotion of the Influencer Marketing
White Paper and the South African Content Creator Charter, both of which set the standard for ethical and effective influencer marketing practices. Additionally, the committee is preparing to release its latest research, the Influencer Marketing Perceptions Report, in Quarter 1 of 2025, says IAB SA.

"I am honoured to chair such an esteemed group of industry professionals," says Mantle. "Together with the committee, we aim to continue building on the incredible work achieved to date. Our focus will be on fostering collaboration, providing education and equipping the industry with resources that empower brands and creators alike."

IAB SA says that the Influencer Marketing Committee comprises a talented and diverse group of experts, including:

  • Asanda Munyu: Senior Public Relations Specialist and Influencer Marketing Lead at Republic PR
  • Dashni Vilakazi: Managing Director of The MediaShop 
  • Jolene Roelofse: Founder of Fluence Africa
  • Laurelle James: Senior Influencer and Community Manager at 8909
  • Pierre Cassuto: CMO of Humanz
  • Sanesh Maharaj: Head of Influence for Ogilvy South Africa, and
  • Zipho Ntloko: Strategist at Dentsu Creative. 

IAB SA concludes that together, the committee is dedicated to setting standards, shaping industry narratives and promoting best practices for influencer marketing in South Africa.

For more information, visit www.iabsa.net. You can also follow IAB South Africa on Facebook, X, or on Instagram. 

*Image courtesy of contributor