Available to hire
I am a dynamic Managing Director and strategic communications leader with 15+ years’ experience delivering corporate communications, brand strategy, and reputation management across financial services, technology, pharmaceuticals, FMCG, and engineering sectors. I have a proven track record in M&A integration, crisis management, and executive stakeholder engagement at the board level. I founded KVD Communications and built a full-service agency with international clients including CIPLA, Crosscall, the Zanzibar Government, PFERD, SEW, and MRI Software.
I have previously consulted for Nestlé, GSK, Johnnie Walker, De Beers, LG Mobile, and DSTV, advising on global campaigns, restructuring communications, and market expansion initiatives. I am passionate about leading teams, shaping brand narratives, and driving growth through strategic communications.
Experience Level
Language
English
Fluent
Afrikaans
Fluent
Work Experience
Managing Director and Founder at KVD Communications
March 1, 2019 - October 28, 2025Founded and leads KVD Communications, building a full-service agency for multinational and government clients. Directed the development and execution of integrated PR, marketing, and communications strategies, improving visibility, stakeholder engagement, and brand positioning. Recruited and led a multi-disciplinary team, established a high-performance culture, and steered crisis communication and reputation management. Collaborated with boards and executive leadership to align communications with business transformation and market expansion; led corporate events and large-scale brand activations to strengthen client presence in competitive sectors.
Strategic Communications and Brand Consultant at Self-Employed
February 28, 2019 - February 28, 2019Advised on M&A communications, change management, leadership alignment, and contract renegotiation for major clients (e.g., GSK, Open Networks/Google for Work). Designed executive and regional marketing team structures for pan-African go-to-market strategies for LG Mobile Africa. Directed communications for corporate restructurings and launches (DSTV, AMC Channels, Nestlé). Contributed to global campaigns (Johnnie Walker), and developed crisis frameworks for high-visibility reputational challenges (De Beers Botswana, Isuzu South Africa, NZ Immigration Advisors Authority).
Head of Department: Public Relations at Brandfluent
February 28, 2015 - February 28, 2015Directed a multi-person PR team, defined objectives, and aligned output with client growth goals. Implemented multi-channel communications strategies to maximize client visibility, managed media relations, and oversaw corporate events and PR activations. Led sensitive communications for reputation protection and partnered with senior management on business development opportunities.
Account Manager at Livewired Public Relations
May 31, 2013 - May 31, 2013Developed and executed integrated PR and digital communication strategies tailored to client objectives. Managed client service delivery, media relations, and editorial development. Mentored junior staff, coordinated events and activations, and ensured alignment with brand goals.
Publicist at Jacaranda 94.2 Fm
October 31, 2011 - October 31, 2011Promoted the Jacaranda 94.2 brand through targeted PR campaigns, coordinating publicity for station initiatives, sponsorships, and community events. Managed media monitoring and relationship-building with journalists, and produced editorial content to ensure consistent brand messaging across platforms.
Television Producer at Purple Cape Productions
May 31, 2010 - May 31, 2010Directed the full production lifecycle, including script development, talent sourcing, scheduling, and post-production oversight. Managed budgets and resources, built cross-functional teams, and liaised with financial backers and external stakeholders. Provided strategic input on communications and PR elements of productions to enhance brand visibility and audience engagement.
Publicist at Jacaranda 94.2 FM
October 1, 2011 - October 1, 2011Promoted the Jacaranda 94.2 brand through targeted PR campaigns and media initiatives. Coordinated publicity efforts for station initiatives, sponsorships, and community events. Managed media monitoring and relationship-building with journalists and industry stakeholders. Produced editorial and creative content, ensuring consistent brand messaging across platforms. Oversaw print supplements and promotional material, maintaining brand integrity and audience reach.
Education
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) Corporate Communications at University of Johannesburg
January 1, 2004 - December 31, 2007Qualifications
Industry Experience
Financial Services, Government, Media & Entertainment, Professional Services, Software & Internet, Healthcare, Life Sciences, Manufacturing, Other, Agriculture & Mining, Education, Non-Profit Organization, Telecommunications, Energy & Utilities
Experience Level
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