Michelle Mogo and Cilla Thompson, the dynamic duo behind Orchestra Brand Solutions, prove that friendship and business can mix.
Their story begins at the Sunday Times, where they bonded over big ideas, creative problem-solving, and life in the media world. Let’s just say, there was a lot of laughter.
As their careers evolved, life took them in different directions – Cilla ventured deeper into Media and TV production, while Michelle explored the worlds of IT, BPO and global CX branding. But even through career changes, celebrations, dramas, and countless “I can’t believe that just happened!” moments, they remained firm friends, becoming each other’s sounding boards, cheerleaders, and trusted confidantes.
Years later, as they both reached a point in their careers where they craved something more – a chance to build something truly their own – the idea of starting a business together began to take shape.
Now, everyone and their favourite aunt will tell you, “Never go into business with friends!” But Cilla and Michelle? They disagree. They believe that trust, mutual respect, and a shared history make for the best partnerships. So, they took the plunge. Because sometimes, “never say never” trumps all other advice.
And that, my friends, is how Orchestra came to be…
Michelle Mogo, co-founder of Orchestra Brand Solutions, has spent over 20 years in marketing and advertising. She’s navigated the wild world of IT, CX, BPO, Media, and Advertising, proving she can handle pretty much anything you throw at her (as long as there are copious amounts of coffee).
Known for her ethical and dependable approach, Michelle is the kind of person you want on your team (and in your corner). She’s successfully led rebranding initiatives, brand acquisitions digital campaigns, and high-profile events.
At iSON Xperiences and Altron People Solutions, Michelle served as Global Lead of Marketing and Head of Marketing, respectively, where she played a key role in transforming traditional BPO narratives into dynamic CX stories. She built marketing functions from scratch, mentored geographically dispersed teams, and executed impactful external and internal communications.
Michelle’s career began in the music industry, where she gained valuable experience coordinating the Coca-Cola Full Blast Music Show. This national radio program involved scriptwriting, music selection, collaboration with DJs and organizing TV productions and live roadshows.
In the advertising world, Michelle progressed through client service, account management, and leadership roles. She managed diverse portfolios, working with prominent brands such as Estée Lauder, Clinique, MAC Cosmetics, Nike, Electrolux, Douglas Green Bellingham, Pastel, Citadel, Peregrine and others.
Michelle also served as Marketing Manager at Times Media for many year, where she developed trade campaigns, events, and CRM strategies for publications like the Sunday Times, The Times, Sowetan, and Stuff Magazine and led annual projects like the Sunday Times Top Brands Awards and Generation Next Survey & Awards.
Michelle’s superpower? Building genuine connections and delivering outstanding results for Orchestra Brand Solutions’ clients. She’s a blend of creativity, pragmatism, and a somewhat dark sense of humor.
Cilla Thompson, co-founder of Orchestra Brand Solutions, is a media sales maven with over 24 years of experience turning chaos into opportunity. From leading high-octane sales teams to orchestrating splashy product launches (yes, she’s shared the spotlight with David Beckham and Antonio Banderas, no big deal).
Her journey spans international magazine titles including Cosmopolitan, Marie Claire, House and Leisure, Good Housekeeping, Elle, Elle Decoration, Destiny, Destiny Man, and Sawubona In-Flight Magazine, along with TV sales, events, and project management. A self-starter with a sharp eye for detail, Cilla thrives under pressure, has led teams of up to 40 people, and consistently delivers exceptional results. Along the way, she’s built strong relationships with industry leaders, media owners, and agency directors, learning from the likes of the legendary late Jenna Clifford and gaining global insights at the Elle & Elle Décor Editorial Seminar in Paris.
Her expertise spans the full spectrum of digital media and marketing, including display, mobile, BTS video, social, influencer, and content campaigns. She also led the successful launches of MasterChef SA, Survivor SA, Family Feud SA, and Project Runway SA, consistently boosting audience numbers and visibility.
At Orchestra, she brings strategic thinking, creativity, and a results-driven mindset to every project. Known for her ability to build trust, manage time brilliantly, and solve problems with calm efficiency, she ensures every detail is covered.
Some of her career highlights include leading national sales teams and exceeding targets of up to R650 million, producing launch events for global TV formats, and collaborating with media owners to extend brand reach across platforms. She has also proudly represented South Africa at international media conferences and worked alongside global brands.
With her sunny outlook, can-do attitude, and unforgettable laugh, Cilla continues to leave a lasting impression in the media and branding world.
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