Andre Pillay

I am a dynamic and visionary executive with over 20 years of extensive experience in technology, specializing in the media and advertising industry. With a proven track record as a Chief Technology Officer, I have a demonstrated history of creating transformative IT ecosystems, aligning information strategies with organizational objectives, and implementing innovative solutions to enhance productivity and efficiency. I am proficient in leading cross-functional teams, fostering stakeholder relationships, and excel in financial management and budgeting. 

I hold a Master of Science in Information Systems Management & Technology from the University of Liverpool, providing a strong educational foundation to complement my practical experience. My skills span a wide range of areas including strategic planning, enterprise architecture, cloud architecture, digital transformation, and cybersecurity frameworks. Known for my personal attributes of integrity, empathy, and a customer-centric approach, I am an agile and innovative leader who is outcomes-driven and solution-oriented. 

In my role as Chief Technology Officer at Nahana Communications, I spearheaded the development of the organizational technology strategy, translating it into actionable steps to drive business and revenue growth. I evaluated short- and long-term goals and needs for capital investments, ensuring a scalable, resilient, and secure ICT infrastructure. I managed system infrastructure for optimal functionality and efficiency, and monitored KPIs and IT budgets to assess technological performance. I also conducted research on new technology trends for platform development, collaborating closely with the CEO and Executives to enhance revenue through new technological platforms. 

Earlier in my career, as Chief Information Officer at Nahana Communications, I formulated the business information strategy, advising senior management on technology trends. I effectively managed risk within IT and knowledge management functions, and selected and implemented new technologies prioritizing cost-effectiveness. I led large-scale technology initiatives for long-term strategic plans, and provided cost-benefit analysis for financial decision-making. 

In addition, I have a significant tenure as Technical Director and Studio Manager at FCB South Africa, where I provided strategic direction and technical expertise for various advertising campaigns, resulting in increased project completion efficiency. I streamlined workflow processes, mentored and supervised a team of 80, and successfully managed budgets, resources, and timelines for projects ranging from small-scale commercials to large-scale campaigns. My contributions also extended to spearheading the development of the South African bid-book for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, a pivotal contribution to securing the event for South Africa. 

Chief Technology Officer, Nahana Communications (07/2018 - Present)

• Led the development of organizational technology strategy, driving business growth and revenue.
• Oversaw the implementation and monitoring of technology strategy, ensuring scalability and security.
• Managed ICT infrastructure for optimal functionality and efficiency.
• Monitored KPIs and IT budgets to assess technological performance.
• Conducted research on new technology trends for platform development.
• Collaborated with executives to enhance revenue through new technological platforms.
• Developed policies and regulatory environments for ICT infrastructure and digital platforms.
• Managed key stakeholder relationships, driving necessary technological improvements.

Chief Information Officer, Nahana Communications (06/2010 - 06/2018)

• Formulated business information strategy, advising senior management on technology trends.
• Managed risk within IT and knowledge management functions.
• Selected and implemented cost-effective new technologies.
• Led large-scale technology initiatives for long-term strategic plans.
• Provided cost-benefit analysis for financial decision-making.
• Managed sales, operational data, and software solutions in line with strategic vision.
• Collaborated with executive leaders to resolve operational issues.
• Built agile teams to maintain cloud-based and stand-alone systems.

Technical Director and Studio Manager, FCB South Africa (1999 – 2010)

• Led the technical department, overseeing all aspects of pre-production, production, and post-production processes.
• Provided strategic direction and technical expertise for advertising campaigns, ensuring high-quality deliverables.
• Streamlined workflow processes, resulting in a 20% increase in project completion efficiency.
• Mentored and supervised a team of 80, fostering a collaborative and innovative work environment.
• Successfully managed budgets, resources, and timelines for projects of varying scale.
• Spearheaded the development of the South African bid-book for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, a pivotal contribution to securing the event for South Africa.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to deliver cohesive and impactful advertising solutions.

• Master of Science in Information Systems Management & Technology, University of Liverpool, 2016
• Master of Business Administration in Business Administration
• Postgraduate Diploma in Management, MANCOSA, 2004
• Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science/Software Engineering/Information Technology.