In a move that will allow it to diversify its sponsorship portfolio, Smartgroup Corporation, through its brand Smartleasing, will not extend its partnership with brand ambassador and seven-time V8 Supercar champion, Jamie Whincup, for the 2019 season.
Smartgroup Executive and architect of Whincup’s ambassadorship, Dave Adler, said the time was right to make the break. “We’ve done some terrific work with Jamie over the last four years, and 2018 was the pinnacle for us. Jamie has fronted our videos; met, inspired, taken selfies with and signed t-shirts for thousands of our customers trackside, and shared his unique insights into successful team leadership with our clients. He’s been the perfect brand ambassador. I cannot speak highly enough of Jamie and this decision is in fact a hard one for me yet the right one for the company.”
In that time, Whincup has also solidified his position as the most successful V8 Supercar Driver of all time, with a total of 113 race wins, 80 starts from poll positions (the legendary Peter Brock scored 80 starts from poll) and seven V8 Supercar Championship wins.
Reflecting on his 2015 decision to appoint Whincup to the role of brand ambassador, Adler says, “We wanted someone who reflected our values as a brand and Jamie is all those things and more. He’s honest, friendly, relatable, and a good sport. Success hasn’t changed his essence. While Jamie will no longer be representing our brand, there are opportunities for us to work with Whincup Motor Sport, hosting our clients at future events.”
Smartgroup will continue sponsoring the Queensland Reds, as well as the Wallaroos and the Super W competition through our partnership with Rugby Australia. Our backing of programs that support indigenous youth in regional areas will also continue.
And finally, after contributing over $900,000 via our CSR programs in 2018, Smartgroup will continue to support a range of not-for-profit organisations, as well as expanding our ‘Purple Meets Green’ program of environmental initiatives.
Details of new sponsorship and philanthropic activities will be announced as they’re finalised.
