Mandla Holomisa’s just not that into politics. He prefers to get the fact that he’s an MP and the son of the president of the United Democratic Movement, Bantu Holomisa, out of the way. Then he can focus on his love for his job and 
the finer things in life – suitably so, as he manages several premium brands for one of the world’s leaders in the wines and spirits industry, Pernod Ricard.

Over the years since managing his first brand, Chivas Regal, at only 22, he’s significantly increased revenue for the company, conjured up exciting experiences for his high-net worth clients, from exhilarating tastings in the sky to fun horse racing events, and he’s launched Chivas Regal’s global entrepreneurial search, The Venture in SA. “Chivas Regal has always embodied a sense of entrepreneurship and luxury – we refer to it as style and substance.

Mandla Holomisa
Mandla Holomisa
Image: Annalize Nel

Going into our third year of The Venture in SA is really exciting because it’s another opportunity to find and support the most promising aspiring social entrepreneurs and present them with an opportunity to realise their potential, gain exposure and get a shot at $1m in funding and resources.” Holomisa embodies his brand’s language in his own style. “I like dressing casually, but for me casual doesn’t mean compromising on quality. I clean up well,” he smiles coyly. “I appreciate a great suit for the right occasion and I believe the way we look really can aid us – I sell premium whisky, so I dress accordingly.”


HOLOMISA WEARS

Copper linen jacket and navy pants by CSquared, a crisp pinstripe white shirt by Viyella and a brown leather Fabiani belt. “For me, as long as the colours and elements work and play together I’m happy.” His shoes are brown Carducci 
leather boots with a zip worn with Skinny Sbu socks. “I got these socks as a gift and I really like them.” On his right-hand wrist is his Emporio Armani Chronograph Watch with soft perforated grey leather strap and on the other, some wooden beads he picked up from a market in Los Angeles.


HOLOMISA LOVES

Style icon? Brad Pitt for his red carpet looks and Mr Ultra Suave himself, Pharrell Williams, who I’ve been a fan of since his days of launching the 
ICECREAM brand. Best holiday? As an Eastern Cape native, I love exploring the untouched “beach-bushes” of the Wild Coast. Leisure time? I love cooking and trying out new recipes. I have lots of cookbooks and all the gadgets you can 
think of in my kitchen. Drink? Chivas 18 on the rocks with a tinge of water.


© Wanted 2024 - If you would like to reproduce this article please email us.
X