DAMIEN MAPALALA
Summary
Dynamic project management leader with a client-centric approach at BUZZ GROUP AFRICA LIMITED, delivering projects on time and under budget. Expert in project scope management and anticipatory problem-solving, I foster team collaboration and drive performance outcomes, mentoring junior staff to enhance skills and achieve measurable success in high-stakes environments.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Head of Project Management
BUZZ GROUP AFRICA LIMITED
05.2025 - Current
- Served as a thought leader within the organization, staying abreast of emerging trends in project management methodologies and technologies to maintain a competitive edge.
- Delivered projects on time and under budget by diligently overseeing resource utilization, cost control measures, and scope management.
- Mentored junior project managers in best practices, fostering a culture of continuous learning within the team.
- Conducted post-project evaluations to identify lessons learned, areas for improvement, and opportunities for future growth or development.
- Spearhead end-to-end project management for national and international campaigns, from concept development to execution and reporting.
- Lead creative and strategic planning for experiential marketing, sports and lifestyle events, including partnerships with global brands like Heineken, Smirnoff, and SBL.
- Implement agile workflows and cross-departmental collaboration to ensure timely delivery and alignment with client expectations.
Account Director
BUZZ GROUP AFRICA LIMITED
11.2024 - 05.2025
- Established trusted relationships with key stakeholders by providing consistent communication and exceptional service throughout the account lifecycle.
- Built strong rapport with clients through regular check-ins, status updates, and proactive problem-solving approaches.
- Delivered measurable success by consistently meeting or exceeding client expectations, solidifying reputation as a reliable account partner.
- Applied business and marketing knowledge to develop briefs and pitches for customer projects.
- Maintained deep understanding of company services and products in order to offer most knowledgeable customer support.
- Mentored junior team members, fostering a collaborative environment that encouraged professional growth.
- Presented insightful reports to clients on campaign progress and results, demonstrating the value of services provided.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of industry trends and best practices, offering valuable insights to clients seeking competitive advantages.
Head of Operations
STR8UPVIBES (OMADELIA)
11.2019 - 04.2023
- Collaborated with executive leadership on strategic planning initiatives to drive business growth.
- Implemented data-driven decision-making processes, leveraging analytics to optimize operations.
- Streamlined operational processes by identifying inefficiencies and implementing best practices.
- Improved overall productivity with the introduction of innovative process improvement initiatives.
- Spearheaded continuous improvement projects, resulting in enhanced business performance.
- Increased customer satisfaction by actively addressing concerns and ensuring timely resolutions.
Project Coordinator
ZANZIBAR SEAFOOD FESTIVAL LIMITED
06.2021 - 10.2021
- Kept projects on schedule by managing deadlines and adjusting workflows.
- Supervised multiple projects from project start through delivery by prioritizing needs and delegating assignments.
- Enhanced team collaboration through regular meetings, fostering a positive work environment for increased productivity.
- Liaised between departments to facilitate communication and keep appropriate parties updated on project developments.
- Prepared meeting agendas and minutes for distribution and record keeping.
Intern
Sahara Media Group
07.2016 - 10.2016
- Supported staff members in their daily tasks, reducing workload burden and allowing for increased focus on higher-priority assignments.
- Gained valuable experience working within a specific industry, applying learned concepts directly into relevant work situations.
- Sorted and organized files, spreadsheets, and reports.
- Analyzed problems and worked with teams to develop solutions.
- Developed organizational skills through managing multiple tasks simultaneously while adhering to strict deadlines.
- Participated in workshops and presentations related to projects to gain knowledge.
- Contributed to a positive team environment by collaborating with fellow interns on group projects and presentations.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Journalism And Mass Communication
UNIVERSITY OF DAR ES SALAAM
Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania12-2018
High School Diploma -
ST JOSEPH'S CATHEDRAL HIGH SCHOOL
Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania05-2015
CERTIFICATE OF SECONDARY SCHOOL EDUCATION -
STAR HIGH SCHOOL
Arusha, Tanzania10-2012
CERTIFICATE OF PRIMARY EDUCATION -
PENINSULA ENGLISH MEDIUM SCHOOL
Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania12-2008
Skills
- Timely project coordination
- Client-centric approach
- Project scope management
- Anticipatory problem-solving
- Team-oriented mindset
- Commitment to performance outcomes
Accomplishments
- Reduced department operating costs by 10% in 6 months.
- Completed the SERENGETI CHRISTMAS FLASH MOBS Project on time.
- Completed the SMIRNOFF NO KNOWN ADDRESS Project on time and under budget its aligned budget.
- Used Microsoft Excel to develop inventory tracking spreadsheets and Checklists
- Achieved completion of Heineken Silver Launch through effectively helping with the team with several tasks.
- Completed Phase 1 and Phase 2 of SERENGETI LITE NIGHTS PINDUA MEZA CAMPAIGN both in Dar and North Lake regions Project on time and under budget its aligned budget.
- Completed Phase 1 and Phase 2 of GUINNESS SMOOTH AND FES MERGER CAMPAIGN both in Dar and North Lake regions Project on time and under budget its aligned budget.
Languages
Swahili
Bilingual or Proficient (C2)
English
Bilingual or Proficient (C2)
Timeline
Head of Project Management
BUZZ GROUP AFRICA LIMITED
05.2025 - Current
Account Director
BUZZ GROUP AFRICA LIMITED
11.2024 - 05.2025
Project Coordinator
ZANZIBAR SEAFOOD FESTIVAL LIMITED
06.2021 - 10.2021
Head of Operations
STR8UPVIBES (OMADELIA)
11.2019 - 04.2023
Intern
Sahara Media Group
07.2016 - 10.2016
Bachelor of Arts - Journalism And Mass Communication
UNIVERSITY OF DAR ES SALAAM
High School Diploma -
ST JOSEPH'S CATHEDRAL HIGH SCHOOL
CERTIFICATE OF SECONDARY SCHOOL EDUCATION -
STAR HIGH SCHOOL
CERTIFICATE OF PRIMARY EDUCATION -
PENINSULA ENGLISH MEDIUM SCHOOL
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