Honouring the Memory of Peter Ivanoff: A Pioneer in South African Marketing

Peter Ivanoff Chartered Marketer (CM) SA Business Growth and Data Specialist

It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our dear colleague, Peter Ivanoff, on the 4th of January. Peter was not only a cherished member of The Marketing Centre team but also a true pioneer in the South African marketing landscape, whose contributions and legacy will resonate for years to come.

Peter was the first Marketing Director to join The Marketing Centre South Africa, dedicating over 12 years to empowering businesses with his unmatched marketing expertise. Throughout his tenure, Peter worked with more than 30 businesses, many of whom he partnered with for four to five years, creating enduring relationships built on trust, innovation, and results.

With a career spanning decades, Peter brought a unique blend of commercial acumen, financial insight, and marketing creativity to both B2B and B2C environments. His depth of experience in key industries such as manufacturing, engineering, and mining was unparalleled. Peter’s work extended far beyond South Africa, with international experience spanning the UK, USA, Germany, and Africa. He helped businesses navigate diverse markets with strategic insight and cultural sensitivity.

Peter’s passion for marketing went far beyond traditional campaigns—he was a forward-thinker, constantly evolving with economic trends and bringing these into our industry. Most recently, he became a leading advocate for generative AI in marketing. Peter authored the Professional Marketer’s AI Course for The Marketing Association of South Africa, delivered inspiring lectures at universities, and shared his vision at high-profile events such as LeaderEx. His work in this emerging field showcased his ability to anticipate the future and empower others to embrace innovation.

Peter’s achievements were monumental. From increasing revenues for listed companies by over 30% to implementing strategic turnaround plans for struggling businesses, his contributions transformed the organizations he worked with. But beyond the numbers, Peter’s commitment to people and his dedication to mentoring the next generation of marketers set him apart. He was a true teacher and mentor to his clients and our team, always ready to share his knowledge and time generously with those who sought his guidance.

As we mourn his loss, we celebrate his life and legacy. Peter’s deep commitment to advancing the marketing profession in South Africa earned him recognition, including several prestigious awards such as the Millennium Marketing Award and the IMM Marketing Excellence Awards. His case study work was even published in a globally recognized marketing textbook.

Peter will be remembered as a kind, driven, and visionary leader who left a profound mark on the businesses he worked with, the colleagues he mentored, and the industry he loved.

We will deeply miss his wisdom, guidance, and irreplaceable presence within our team and the marketing industry.

To his family, friends, colleagues, clients, and the many professionals who were privileged to work alongside him, we extend our deepest condolences.

Peter’s impact on marketing in South Africa will continue to inspire us all.

Rest in peace, Peter. Your legacy will live on.