Kerry-Lee M.
Creative Director and Accounts Executive
Compare at US rates $6,000/mo?
Notable Highlight
Over 25 years of experience in marketing, brand management, creative direction, project management, business operations, retail, hospitality, and interior design. Led creative projects from concept through execution while managing budgets, timelines, stakeholders, and multidisciplinary teams. Developed and revitalized brands, launched new business ventures, and delivered innovative marketing strategies that improved customer engagement and commercial performance. Demonstrated expertise in business management, staff recruitment and training, client relationship management, financial administration, content creation, and strategic planning. Combined creative vision with commercial acumen to deliver measurable business outcomes across diverse industries.
Experience Summary
Creative marketing and business professional with over 25 years of experience in marketing, brand management, creative direction, project management, retail, hospitality, interior design, and business operations. Led integrated marketing campaigns, developed brand strategies, managed commercial operations, launched new business ventures, oversaw creative teams, and drove business growth through innovative marketing and customer engagement initiatives.
Key Achievements
Successfully transformed a traditional arts and crafts retail store into a thriving creative destination by incorporating a pottery studio, coffee shop, workshops, and expanded retail offerings. Directed integrated marketing campaigns and sponsorship initiatives from concept through execution, strengthening brand visibility and customer engagement. Led the design, branding, and launch of a themed restaurant, overseeing all stages from concept development to operations. Managed commercial property operations, leasing, marketing, and financial administration for a retail centre while developing marketing strategies that increased customer traffic and tenant engagement. Built and managed successful businesses within the creative, décor, and beauty industries, delivering sustainable growth through innovation, strategic planning, and effective leadership. Developed branding, packaging, marketing collateral, websites, and promotional campaigns for leading corporate clients while leading teams, managing budgets, and delivering high-quality creative solutions that supported business objectives.
Skills
Brings hands-on experience across Marketing, project and event management, brand development, business operations, creative director and concept development. Also works across:
- interior design and space transformation
- business operations
- staff training
- teaching
- financial management
- credit controll
- copywriting
- social media and content creation
- campaigns and product launches
- accounts management
- sales
- quotations and invoicing
Work Experience
Acting Traffic Controller & Creative Director
a previous company · 2023 - Present
- Direct integrated marketing campaigns, events, and sponsorship initiatives from concept through execution.
- Prepare annual marketing budgets and campaign timelines to ensure on-time and cost-effective delivery.
- Oversee creative output including design, copywriting, and brand alignment across all platforms.
- Coordinate campaign launches and manage sponsorship allocations.
- Produce and coordinate influencer-led video shoots and social media campaign content.
Creative Director
SIACCS · 2020 - 2023
- Transform a local retail outlet into a multi-functional creative hub incorporating a pottery studio, coffee shop, and craft workshops.
- Conduct market research and introduce new product lines to improve profitability and customer engagement.
- Design menus, develop catering offerings, and create frozen meal product lines.
- Strengthen digital presence through targeted social media campaigns and brand positioning.
- Manage stock control, procurement, supplier relations, and bookkeeping functions.
Centre Manager
OV · 2016 - 2017
- Manage daily centre operations, maintenance, and regulatory compliance.
- Supervise maintenance teams and coordinate repair projects.
- Negotiate new lease agreements and renewals with tenants.
- Plan and execute centre-wide marketing campaigns, events, and promotional activities.
- Oversee debtor and creditor management, including rental collection and account reconciliation.
Restaurant Concept Developer & Manager
PJ · 2014 - 2015
- Conceptualize, design, build, and launch a themed restaurant including full interior and brand development.
- Direct public relations strategy and execute grand opening campaigns.
- Recruit, train, and manage front-of-house and back-of-house teams.
- Oversee customer experience, reservations, supplier negotiations, and daily operations.
Accounts Executive
MD · 2008 - 2013
- Serve as brand ambassador and account lead for corporate clients including Mondi Paper, Waltons, and Imana Foods.
- Develop corporate identities including logos, packaging, websites, and brand collateral.
- Create marketing campaigns, competitions, and promotional strategies.
- Produce copy, layouts, and illustrations for catalogues and magazine publications.
- Conduct market research and manage long-term client relationships.
Business Owner
WCHHS · 2000 - 2008 (Wyrd Creation - Ongoing)
- Found and manage two businesses: a creative design and decorative arts company, and a high-volume hair salon.
- Deliver interior design services, renovations, colour consulting, and custom art commissions.
- Execute installations and exhibitions for Decorex and Home & Garden shows.
- Recruit, train, and supervise staff while overseeing payroll and operations.
- Build a loyal client base through strategic marketing and referral growth.
Credit Controller
SBO · 1990 - 2000
- Manage a large SME credit portfolio with turnovers of up to R250,000.
- Assess balance sheets and process loan applications.
- Recover bad debts and manage collections processes.
- Investigate fraud cases and resolve complex account discrepancies.
- Balance multiple suspense accounts and improve overall portfolio performance.