Mars, the multinational manufacturer of confectionery, pet food, and other food products recently held its’ South African Annual Conference, known as All Associates Day, is an eagerly anticipated event where associates come together to celebrate achievements, align with company values, and inspire one another.
The awards as always not only highlight the achievements of the different departments within the company but also reinforce the five principles that drive Mars' success: Quality, Responsibility, Mutuality, Efficiency, and Freedom.
For the Mars South Africa Supply department, the award went to Noxolo (Nox) Somhlahlo. Presenting the award, Nicholas Baard, Supply Chain Director of Mars Southern Africa said “Nox has been awarded the Supply Chain Associate of the Year for 2023 due to the huge contribution she made to Mars as well as in her own development. Nox double-hatted for 6 months of 2023, doing two roles while a fellow Associate was on maternity leave. She was an integral part of completely step changing how we track and hold accountable our logistics costs and in doing so helped identify and create significant savings in 2023 and 2024. Nox stretched herself and grew professionally, despite facing into some difficult challenges. She did this while always smiling and completing projects outside of her job scope. Nox has great attitude and is known for being someone everyone wants to work with.”
After the conference, Nox shared: “I'm beyond thrilled to share that I've been awarded the prestigious Supply Chain Award of the Year at this year’s AAD conference, for Mars Southern Africa! This recognition means the world to me, especially because it came as such a wonderful surprise. On the day of the conference, I was celebrating my birthday with family, but little did I know that this incredible honour was waiting for me. It truly felt like an amazing added birthday gift.”
“As I reflect on this milestone, I'm filled with a sense of pride and humility. Once again, thank you to our SC Director, & the Mars leadership team, from the bottom of my heart for this incredible honour. I am deeply humbled and immensely grateful. Here's to many more milestones, challenges conquered, and successes shared in the journey ahead!”
Pic: Nox Somhlahlo (centre), Nicholas Baard (right) & Helen McDougall, Managing Director Southern Africa (left)
