Nico de Klerk

Managing Director

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

About

As a Senior Project Manager with over 14 years of diverse experience in the events industry, I have led and successfully executed hundreds of large-scale, international events across South Africa and the Middle East. With expertise rooted in coordinating events for technical production companies, events agencies, and scenic production companies, I have honed my skills in team leadership, budget management, and organizational ability, resulting in spectacular event experiences that captivate audiences and exceed client expectations. Working with clients to understand their vision is the cornerstone of my approach. I take pride in offering practical, innovative solutions based on years of industry knowledge, budget considerations, and an understanding of the operational logistics of event planning. In doing so, I have successfully managed events such as the Mother of the Nation Festival – MIYAH Pavilion, Dubai Beach Polo Cup, World Choir Games, Hyundai Genesis Custom GCC Private Showcase, Sole DXB activations for Adidas, Cashew, and Jägermeister, The Time 100 Impact Awards, and the relaunch of Emirates Palace as Mandarin Oriental. Navigating the complex challenges of the event industry has allowed me to develop a leadership style that values every team member’s contribution. I believe in cultivating a supportive work environment that encourages innovation, creativity, and a commitment to delivering high-quality events. Underpinning this approach is my commitment to consistent quality control, health and safety adherence, and careful timeline management. As I look towards the future, my aim is to transition into a permanent upper-management role in a leading industry company. My focus will be on fostering a well-balanced team environment that values personal growth and career advancement equally. I am dedicated to staying abreast of the latest industry trends and innovations, and I am always open to feedback and constructive criticism as avenues for professional growth. I invite you to reach out if you are looking for an ambitious and passionate project manager who brings effective leadership and a commitment to delivering superior event experiences.

Experience

  • Managing Director at Urban Camel Graphics
    Aug 2023 - Present · 2 yrs 11 mos

  • Senior Project Manager in Events at Freelance
    May 2016 - Oct 2023 · 7 yrs 6 mos

    Throughout my career, I have been fortunate enough to have played a role in numerous unforgettable events. While it is impossible to capture the full scale and diversity of all those moments here, I have listed a selection of unique events below. I warmly invite you to explore these remarkable projects in the designated section of my profile.

  • Company Owner at Q - Tech
    Apr 2017 - Dec 2022 · 5 yrs 9 mos

    My journey as a business founder began in 2017. I launched into the event sector as a solo freelance technician. With no startup capital, I lived on a shoestring budget while striving to build the business. Despite numerous obstacles, I forged ahead, gradually establishing a network of clients and trustworthy suppliers. My hard work began to bear fruit, and I slowly carved a niche for myself as a professional event consultant. By 2020, after enjoying the best first quarter since inception and a calendar filled with pre-booked events, it seemed like the time had come for my business to truly soar. Plans were afoot to scale the business, the future appeared promising. Then came the unexpected - the Covid-19 pandemic. The pandemic wreaked havoc on my expansion plans and the business's overall sustainability. The capital that had been set aside for growth was quickly depleted. Despite repeated attempts at restructuring over the following two years, the market and industry's radical transformation forced me to accept that the pre-pandemic business environment had been irreversibly altered. Yet, every challenge brings new opportunities. My successful past experiences in the Middle East gave me the courage to adapt to these changes. I chose to return to an environment teeming with opportunities, ready to harness unique experiences that could stimulate growth and excellence. Although the journey was challenging, it was a testament to the power of resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity.

  • Project Manager at Sls Productions
    Nov 2014 - May 2016 · 1 yr 7 mos

    Collaborated with the sales team and leveraged technical expertise to secure AED 1M in new business from client interactions and consultations. Coordinated with CAD designers, venue personnel, suppliers, and engineers to ensure the successful implementation of lighting plots, venue layouts, and risk assessment protocols for over 50 events annually. Coordinated successful project execution by advising clients on suitable technical equipment, resulting in a 90% customer satisfaction rate.

  • Head of Lighting and AV at Starlite Productions
    Feb 2013 - Nov 2014 · 1 yr 10 mos

    Managed a team of 10 technicians to ensure the successful setup and tear down of equipment for 50+ shows annually, resulting in a 98% on-time completion rate. Designed and executed innovative lighting solutions for high-profile events, utilizing advanced technology such as LED lights and projection mapping, resulting in a 30% increase in event attendance. Led negotiations with vendors to secure cost-effective transport solutions, resulting in savings of 50K annually.