Colette Van Rooyen
Data Insights And GIS Leader
Nelspruit,MP
Work Preference
Summary
Dynamic Data and GIS Manager with a proven track record in data management, GIS, and business intelligence. Expertise in developing and implementing data-driven strategies, managing large-scale data projects, and delivering insightful analyses that inform business decisions. Proficient in database development, reporting, data visualization, and mobile GIS applications, with a strong foundation in stakeholder engagement, training, and strategic planning. Committed to leveraging analytical skills and technical knowledge to enhance operational efficiency and support organizational goals.
Overview
29
29
years of professional experience
2
2
Languages
8
8
years of post-secondary education
1
1
Masters Degree completing
Work History
Head of Department: Data Insights
Working on Fire
01.2023 - Current
- Responsible for developing, overseeing, organizing, storing, and analyzing data and data systems
- Creating and enforcing policies for effective data management
- Formulating management techniques for quality data collection to ensure adequacy, accuracy, and legitimacy of data
- Devising and implementing efficient and secure procedures for data management and analysis with attention to all technical aspects
- Implemented systems that ensured correctness of data, evidence and reporting
- Interpreted historical production data that led to an improvement in target setting
- Influenced selection of candidates for international deployment by analyzing data
- Translating monthly data into KPIs for reporting and measuring of metrics
- Launched new process flows for payroll to enhance quality control and verification of information
- Building capacity in my department by encouraging members of the team to initiate new projects to analyze and present data
- Led operational strategies to enhance team performance and ensure compliance with safety standards.
- Streamlined communication processes among departments to improve workflow efficiency and collaboration.
- Mentored and trained staff on best practices and safety protocols, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
- Developed and implemented training programs that elevated team competencies and reduced onboarding time.
- Coordinated resource allocation to optimize project execution and minimize operational downtime.
- Analyzed performance data to identify areas for operational enhancements and strategic decision-making.
- Provided ongoing staff development opportunities through training programs, workshops, and regular feedback sessions.
- Implemented quality control measures that resulted in improved products or services within the department offerings.
- Led a team of professionals to consistently achieve or exceed performance targets.
- Collaborated with other departments to ensure seamless coordination in achieving company-wide objectives.
- Enhanced department efficiency by streamlining processes and implementing time-saving strategies.
- Evaluated employee performance fairly and accurately, rewarding hard work while addressing areas needing improvement.
- Maintained a professional work environment by addressing conflicts proactively and fostering open communication among staff members.
National GIS and Data Manager
Working on Fire
09.2011 - 01.2023
- Achieving an International Award for developing a Mobile GIS system for Alien Invasive Plant Clearing, used to monitor work done in-field by teams and as a tracking device for safety
- Developed an online dashboard for COVID-19 response, utilized by the National and Provincial Incident Commands to coordinate the response to COVID-19
- Supported the National COVID-19 Incident Command as a member
- Developed a Stock Application for capturing stock values at base level, in a SQL Database and integrated into Pastel, utilizing ESRI Survey123
- In the process of developing an Asset Management System, with a new application to be available on mobile devices and usable online and offline
- Developed East Andes Project ArcGIS Online Application, used in the forestry sector to determine tower placements, line of sight, and extent of plantations covered by tower view radius
- Developed a Web Application for Managers to monitor field workers, allowing report creation, data export, and location viewing of teams
- Part of the Blyde Restoration Group Mapping Committee, mapping Alien Invasive Plant extent in the Blyde River Canyon to protect water resources
- Developed Training Material and trained fire-fighters in Map Reading and GIS
- Developed and implemented data management strategies to enhance operational efficiency.
- Oversaw data quality assurance processes, ensuring accuracy and consistency across datasets.
- Led cross-functional teams in analyzing data trends to inform strategic decision-making.
- Designed and maintained databases using advanced data management tools and systems.
- Streamlined data collection methods, improving workflow and reducing processing time.
- Conducted regular audits of data systems to identify areas for improvement and implement solutions.
- Troubleshot technical issues efficiently under pressure; provided prompt and knowledgeable support to endusers.
- Enhanced data accuracy by implementing robust data validation and quality control processes.
- Established consistent naming conventions and metadata standards for improved organization and searchability of data resources.
- Managed vendor relationships to ensure timely delivery of high-quality products and services at competitive prices.
- Implemented access controls to safeguard sensitive information from unauthorized access or misuse.
- Spearheaded adoption of new data visualization tools, enhancing stakeholder understanding of complex datasets.
- Improved data accessibility for non-technical users with introduction of user-friendly querying interfaces.
Owner GIS Specialist
Modjadji
08.2009 - 08.2011
- Owner GIS Specialist at Modjadji GIS Web Map, Nelspruit
- Capturing of timesheet
- Production of invoices in Pastel accounting program
- Keeping record of invoices made out and payments received
- General office administration
- Meeting with clients
- Conducted GIS and mapping work for various municipalities Land Use Management System, developing a town planning system for use in planning of infrastructure and development
- Assisted in the recapturing of ± 80,000 erven's valuation roll data and verifying the data as correct
- Developed and implemented operational strategies to enhance service delivery and customer satisfaction.
- Managed inventory systems, ensuring optimal stock levels and minimizing waste.
- Oversaw employee training programs, fostering skill development and team cohesion.
- Streamlined workflow processes, increasing efficiency and reducing turnaround time.
- Managed day-to-day business operations.
- Developed and maintained strong relationships with clients, resulting in repeat business and referrals.
- Oversaw daily operations, ensuring all tasks were completed accurately and efficiently by team members.
- Managed financial aspects of the business, including budgeting, financial reporting, and tax preparation.
GIS Specialist
Gismap
08.2007 - 07.2009
- Increased project efficiency by (25%) by implementing advanced GIS technology solutions.
- Capturing of timesheet.
- Production of invoices in Pastel.
- Keeping record of invoices made out and payments received.
- General office administration.
- Meeting with clients.
- Working with fieldworkers.
- Assisting in the management of the fleet of vehicles used in the fieldwork.
- Land Claims GIS for Land Claims Commissioner Mpumalanga South Africa.
- ESKOM National Electricity Supplier Pole Maintenance and Numbering GIS.
- Revenue Management System for various municipalities monies owed to the municipalities in a GIS system and in hard copies.
- Various Valuation Rolls for municipalities with GIS.
- Producing documents required by Town planners and Land Surveyors.
- Developed detailed spatial analyses to support urban planning initiatives.
- Designed and implemented GIS databases to enhance data accessibility and usability.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to integrate GIS solutions into project workflows.
- Conducted training sessions for staff on GIS tools and best practices.
- Streamlined data collection processes, improving accuracy and efficiency of GIS projects.
- Led the migration of legacy systems to modern GIS platforms, enhancing performance.
- Managed complex GIS projects, ensuring timely delivery and stakeholder satisfaction.
- Enhanced GIS data accuracy by implementing quality control procedures and addressing discrepancies in a timely manner.
- Operated as primary point of contact for clients, providing GIS work order proposals with time-to-completion and budgeting estimates.
- Served as field operations manager and verified participants' compliance with established safety standards.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of industry standards, regulations, and guidelines to ensure compliance across all GIS-related tasks.
- Developed custom cartographic products tailored to client specifications, delivering high-quality visual representations of complex information.
- Provided technical support to end-users, assisting in the resolution of GIS-related issues and ensuring a smooth project workflow.
- Streamlined spatial data management through the development of geodatabases and efficient file organization practices.
- Transferred and rescaled information from aerial photographs to complete maps.
GIS Specialist
NETGroup
Nelspruit, South Africa
03.2001 - 07.2007
- Coordinated with cross-functional teams to integrate geospatial data into organizational projects.
- Developed GIS applications to enhance data visualization and decision-making processes.
- Wildlife and Block Burning GIS:
Developed and maintained a spatial GIS database to map and monitor wildlife zones, controlled block burns, and fire history. Supported environmental management decisions by integrating remote sensing data with field observations to track vegetation recovery and fire frequency. - Municipal Electrical Infrastructure Mapping:
Digitized and updated various municipal electrical network plans, ensuring accurate representation of substations, transformers, and distribution lines. Improved asset management and maintenance planning through standardized spatial data layers. - Revenue Management Systems (RMS) Integration:
Assisted in linking spatial property datasets with financial systems to enhance municipal revenue collection and billing accuracy. Conducted spatial audits to identify unbilled properties and discrepancies in land-use classification. - Mbombela Local Municipality Land Use Management System (LUMS):
Contributed to the design and implementation of a GIS-based LUMS for improved urban planning and zoning control. Supported data migration, spatial analysis, and map production for town planning and development applications. - MicroStation Course Development and Training:
Compiled training material and delivered a professional course in Bentley MicroStation, focusing on spatial data creation, editing, and CAD-to-GIS integration. Trained municipal staff and technicians to enhance in-house mapping capabilities. - Led project management efforts for GIS-related assignments, ensuring timely delivery and compliance.
- Operated as primary point of contact for clients, providing GIS work order proposals with time-to-completion and budgeting estimates.
CAD Draughtsperson
Johann Rademeyer Town Planners
Nelspruit, South Africa
01.1997 - 02.2001
- Created detailed technical drawings using REMAP for various townplanning projects.
- Collaborated with architects and engineers to ensure design specifications were accurately represented.
- Reviewed and revised drawings based on feedback, ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations.
- Assisted in the development of project proposals by preparing accurate and comprehensive design documents.
- Conducted quality control checks on completed drafts to maintain high standards of accuracy.
- Used computer-aided design software to prepare maps and schematics.
- Adapted quickly to changes in project scope or requirements, making necessary revisions to drafts and communicating updates with stakeholders promptly.
- Increased overall client satisfaction rates by promptly addressing issues or concerns related to drafted plans, making necessary adjustments as needed.
- Developed CAD drawings from hand sketches, verbal instructions, and site visits.
- Calculated dimensions and allowances with accurate precision for project specifications.
Education
Master of Arts - Data Science
Tech University
Andorra La Vela, Andorra 06.2025 - Current
Graduate Certificate - Certified Cybersecurity Technician
EC Council
United States 01.2025 - Current
Post Graduate Diploma - GIS (NQF8)
UniGIS
Salzburg, Austria 03.2013 - 03.2015
Post-Graduate Certificate - Data Analytics with R
Johns Hopkins University - Coursera
United States 09.2020 - 09.2021
Diploma - Real Estate
Services Sector Education And Training Authority
South Africa 03.2023 - 10.2024
Certificate - Excel Advanced
Macquarie University - Coursera
Sydney, Australia 03.2023 - 03.2024
Certificate - Data Analytics
Google - Coursera
United States 06.2021 - 11.2021
Certificate - SQL
Incusdata
South Africa 01.2021 - 03.2021
Certificate - Project Management
Google - Coursera
United States 11.2021 - 04.2022
Certificate - Training Facillitator And Assessor
Education And Training Authority
South Africa 01.2015 - 09.2015
Skills
SQL
Accomplishments
- Improved Data Management: Increased data accuracy by 70% through improved management techniques.
- Improved People Management: Reduced the cost to company by 30% in wages by managing working days.
- Enhanced Production Planning: Improved the setting of annual targets by analysing historical data for 9 years.
- Mobile GIS Development: Successfully developed an award-winning mobile GIS with 95% user satisfaction rate.
Work Availability
monday
tuesday
wednesday
thursday
friday
saturday
sunday
morning
afternoon
evening
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Quote
“If it is not right do not do it; if it is not true do not say it.”
Marcus Aurelius, Meditations
Timeline
Master of Arts - Data Science
Tech University
06.2025 - Current
Graduate Certificate - Certified Cybersecurity Technician
EC Council
01.2025 - Current
Diploma - Real Estate
Services Sector Education And Training Authority
03.2023 - 10.2024
Certificate - Excel Advanced
Macquarie University - Coursera
03.2023 - 03.2024
Head of Department: Data Insights
Working on Fire
01.2023 - Current
Certificate - Project Management
Google - Coursera
11.2021 - 04.2022
Certificate - Data Analytics
Google - Coursera
06.2021 - 11.2021
Certificate - SQL
Incusdata
01.2021 - 03.2021
Post-Graduate Certificate - Data Analytics with R
Johns Hopkins University - Coursera
09.2020 - 09.2021
Certificate - Training Facillitator And Assessor
Education And Training Authority
01.2015 - 09.2015
Post Graduate Diploma - GIS (NQF8)
UniGIS
03.2013 - 03.2015
National GIS and Data Manager
Working on Fire
09.2011 - 01.2023
Owner GIS Specialist
Modjadji
08.2009 - 08.2011
GIS Specialist
Gismap
08.2007 - 07.2009
GIS Specialist
NETGroup
03.2001 - 07.2007
CAD Draughtsperson
Johann Rademeyer Town Planners
01.1997 - 02.2001