Kgaugelo Thabang Makofane
Senior Audio Engineer & Technical Director
Brisbane, AU.About
Highly accomplished Audio Engineer and Technical Director with over 15 years of progressive experience in the dynamic event, entertainment, and staging industry. Proven leader in conceptualizing, designing, and executing complex audio solutions for large-scale international and national productions. Adept at managing technical teams, optimizing operations, and cultivating strong supplier relationships to deliver unparalleled sound quality and drive project success in advanced markets.
Work
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Summary
Spearheading the audio department for Microhire, a leading events company, by overseeing technical direction, team leadership, and operational excellence for high-profile productions across Queensland.
Highlights
Direct end-to-end audio solutions for diverse large-scale events, encompassing conceptualization, system design, programming, and on-site execution to ensure unparalleled sound quality.
Lead and mentor a technical audio team, providing comprehensive training and support that enhances operational efficiency and technical proficiency across all projects.
Manage complex audio operations and logistics, optimizing resource allocation and workflow to ensure seamless production delivery and client satisfaction.
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Summary
Established and led the Sound division, developing key operational strategies and maintaining a long-term freelance partnership with MTKR Marketing and Communications.
Highlights
Established and led the Sound division, developing key operational strategies and technical standards for all audio productions, ensuring consistent quality.
Cultivated and maintained an ongoing freelance relationship with MTKR for over 15 years, consistently delivering high-quality audio solutions for their marketing and communication needs.
Managed comprehensive sound design and technical execution for various campaigns and events, contributing significantly to successful client engagements and brand visibility.
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Summary
Provided advanced freelance audio engineering and technical consultancy for a diverse portfolio of clients, specializing in large-scale live events and complex production environments across South Africa and internationally.
Highlights
Executed comprehensive audio engineering for major international events, including Formula 1 2024 Saudi Arabia and MDL Beast 2023, ensuring flawless sound production for global audiences.
Delivered high-impact audio solutions for national events such as Night of Legends, DSTV Delicious Festival, and Volkswagen National Awards, consistently exceeding client expectations.
Managed end-to-end audio production for diverse projects, from corporate launches (Audi e-tron) to musical festivals and theatre productions, demonstrating versatility and technical mastery.
Provided specialized training and technical support, leveraging deep knowledge of L-Acoustics, Digico, and Waves systems for optimal performance in complex live environments.
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Summary
Served as Director MD, overseeing all facets of company management, strategic growth, and operational execution for a dynamic production enterprise.
Highlights
Spearheaded company directorship and strategic management, overseeing all operational facets to drive business growth and project profitability.
Cultivated and maintained strong relationships with major suppliers across sub-Saharan Africa, optimizing procurement and ensuring access to cutting-edge audio technology.
Managed comprehensive financial processes, including quoting and invoicing, to ensure fiscal health and efficient project budgeting and resource allocation.
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Summary
Operated as a self-employed Audio Engineer/Technician, providing specialized expertise in sound system design, setup, and operation for diverse clients across South Africa.
Highlights
Delivered expert audio engineering and technical support for a wide range of productions, ensuring optimal sound performance and client satisfaction.
Managed independent project workflows, from technical specification to on-site execution, demonstrating strong self-management and problem-solving skills.
Utilized advanced audio consoles and systems (L-Acoustics, Digico, Waves) to provide high-fidelity sound solutions for various events and installations.
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Summary
Led the Audio Department, responsible for comprehensive sound design, technical execution, and team management to deliver high-quality audio experiences for various productions.
Highlights
Directed comprehensive audio operations, including conceptualization, plotting, and programming, for diverse productions, ensuring high-quality sound delivery and audience engagement.
Managed and mentored the audio technical team, providing targeted training and support to enhance departmental capabilities and project execution efficiency.
Oversaw operations and logistics for audio setups, optimizing equipment deployment and workflow to meet stringent project deadlines and technical specifications.
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Summary
Supervised warehouse operations and provided expert sound engineering support, optimizing equipment management and delivering on-demand services for various shows.
Highlights
Managed warehouse operations, overseeing inventory and equipment logistics to ensure efficient preparation and timely deployment for sound productions.
Delivered on-demand sound engineering services for various shows, ensuring technical excellence and client satisfaction in diverse live environments.
Implemented organizational improvements in warehouse management, streamlining processes to enhance equipment availability and reduce turnaround times by 15%.
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Summary
Played a foundational role in establishing the Sound department at Exclusive Management Services, overseeing initial setup, operational development, and early project execution.
Highlights
Pioneered the establishment of the Sound department, developing foundational infrastructure and operational protocols from inception.
Contributed to the strategic planning and execution of sound solutions for early projects, setting a high standard for technical delivery and client satisfaction.
Collaborated effectively with cross-functional teams to integrate sound services seamlessly into overall event management and production workflows.
Languages
English
Certificates
Skills
Audio Engineering
Live Sound, Sound Design, Audio System Design, Audio Mixing, Sound Reinforcement, Technical Support.
Event Production
Event Management, Staging, Conferences, Musical Festivals, Theatre Productions, Corporate Events.
Technical Operations
Operations Management, Logistics Management, Warehouse Management, Equipment Management, System Integration, Troubleshooting.
Leadership & Management
Team Leadership, Department Management, Project Management, Training & Development, Mentorship, Strategic Planning.
Vendor Relations
Supplier Relationships, Procurement, Contract Negotiation.
Financial Management
Quoting, Invoicing, Budgeting.
Audio Consoles & Systems
L-Acoustics K Systems, L-Acoustics LA Networks, L-Acoustics Sound Vision, Kara II System, Digico Consoles, Waves SoundGrid (101, 201, 301), Dante Audio Networking, Shure Wireless Systems.
Soft Skills
Communication Skills, Multitasking, Problem-Solving, Team Collaboration, Adaptability, Self-Motivation.
References
Landy Yeatman
CFO/Director at Mstarr Productions
Richard Smith
Sound Harmonics-DWR Distribution
Gareth Gambers
Current Supervisor at Microhire
Wynand Veldsman
Eventech