Gareth Edwards
Randburg
Summary
I am a senior professional in South Africa's audio-visual industry with more than 20 years of experience. I began my career in the production industry before moving into the residential market, where I specialised in home theatre and high-fidelity stereo systems. In 2014, I transitioned into the corporate audio-visual sector, initially working in internal sales.
Throughout my corporate career, I have held a variety of roles, including Internal Sales, Sales Executive, Project and Service Manager, Platform Manager, Technical Manager, and Commissioning Engineer. These diverse positions have given me a comprehensive understanding of the audio-visual industry, from sales and project delivery to technical implementation and client support.
I excel at troubleshooting and resolving complex technical issues, and I have extensive knowledge of the technologies and solutions used across the industry. I am also a quick learner who adapts easily to new technologies, enabling me to stay current in an ever-evolving field.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
Work History
Commissioning Engineer
AVT Solutions
04.2025 - Current
- Advised on testing and commissioning procedures and documentation, enhancing project quality and compliance.
- Participated in project meetings to provide progress updates and identify potential issues.
- Communicated with clients to complete projects on time and within budget.
- Conducted rigorous system testing, ensuring fault identification and rectification prior to final handover to clients.
- Maintained safety measures during construction to prevent injuries and damage to property.
- Documented all commissioning activities, creating detailed reports for stakeholders and regulatory compliance.
- Reviewed and interpreted engineering drawings and specifications to guide effective commissioning strategies.
- Tested equipment, machinery and instruments to assess proper functioning.
- Managed multiple projects simultaneously, prioritising and adhering to strict deadlines.
- Collaborated with clients to gather requirements and feedback, ensuring alignment with project objectives.
- Utilised software tools for simulation and modelling of systems prior to physical commissioning, enhancing accuracy.
- Implemented health and safety protocols during commissioning activities, maintaining a zero-accident record.
- Collected data from sensors and other monitoring equipment to ensure systems working properly.
- Spearheaded troubleshooting for complex technical issues, minimising downtime and optimising operational continuity.
Technical Manager
AVT Solutions
08.2023 - 04.2025
- Communicated effectively with all key stakeholders, including project teams, internal clients and external parties.
- Mentored junior staff, providing guidance on best practices and encouraging professional development within the technical team.
- Established effective communication channels between technical and non-technical teams, enhancing collaboration and project outcomes.
- Conducted technology audits to identify areas for improvement, leading initiatives to upgrade systems and processes.
- Provided friendly service when dealing with members of the public and visiting companies to maintain and enhance loyalty.
- Reviewed information from projects and suggested improvements.
- Supervised the deployment of new systems, minimising disruption to business operations and facilitating smooth transitions.
- Collaborated with customers to assess and mitigate risks.
- Managed IT infrastructure upgrades, optimising system performance and ensuring high availability of services.
- Trained and supervised technical volunteers about projects projects to pass on skills needed to perform assigned tasks.
- Delivered technical presentations to stakeholders, clearly explaining complex concepts and securing buy-in for IT initiatives.
- Worked with the IT team to manage edit workstations, technical problems and post production infrastructure.
Site and Project Manager
AVT Solutions
03.2022 - 08.2023
- Developed comprehensive project plans, outlining scopes, timelines, and resources, facilitating smooth execution.
- Facilitated regular team meetings and stakeholder updates, enhancing communication and resolving challenges collaboratively.
- Coordinated with clients to define project objectives and requirements, ensuring alignment with business goals.
- Cultivated strong relationships with clients, stakeholders, and team members, building a culture of trust and cooperation.
- Assessed team performance and provided constructive feedback, contributing to professional development and skill enhancement.
- Analysed project outcomes through post-implementation reviews, identifying lessons learned and informing future projects.
- Utilised project management software tools to track progress, assign tasks, and manage timelines efficiently.
- Conducted risk assessments to identify potential issues, implementing mitigation strategies to minimise project disruptions.
- Managed project budgets exceeding R20 million, ensuring effective resource allocation and cost control measures were in place.
Product Manager
VOX
09.2019 - 03.2022
- Collaborated with engineering and design teams to refine product specifications, enhancing user experience and functionality.
- Established quality control processes, maintaining high standards of product excellence and reliability.
- Analysed sales data and customer feedback to identify opportunities for product enhancements and new feature development.
- Conducted comprehensive market research to identify customer needs, shaping product development strategies accordingly.
- Defined and monitored key performance indicators for product success, implementing adjustments based on data-driven insights.
- Maintained comprehensive documentation of research activities and findings.
- Implemented staff training schemes to achieve research team progression.
Onsite Manager
Prosirius
09.2018 - 08.2019
- Provided specialised support to MTN, ensuring alignment with project requirements and enhancing project outcomes.
- Managed inventory control, reducing waste and ensuring optimal stock levels at all times.
- Created and implemented comprehensive training programmes, resulting in improved team skills and enhanced overall performance.
- Supported employee morale and well-being by developing positive practices centred on career development and individual job satisfaction.
- Advised senior management on facilities needs and delivered ongoing operational support.
- Coordinated strategic plans for administrative services management, optimising resource utilisation and streamlining operations.
- Investigated issues impacting organisational operations and service delivery to understand root causes, prepare detailed reports and recommend corrective actions.
- Directed crisis management efforts during unforeseen events, minimising disruption to operations.
AV Technician
Prosirius
07.2017 - 09.2018
- Set up microphones, cameras and output devices to match technical requirements.
- Set up, tested, and operated audio-visual equipment for live events, guaranteeing high-quality sound and visual delivery.
- Trained junior technicians on proper setup and operation of audio-visual equipment, promoting team skill development.
- Communicated effectively and professionally with service users, explaining complex AV solutions in clear, understandable terms.
- Coordinated activities based on deadlines and available resources.
- Configured audio-visual equipment ahead of use for optimised performance and functionality.
- Skilfully and efficiently conducted fault-finding on broken equipment through inspections and tests.
- Arrived at job sites prepared with tools and materials to ensure smooth operations.
- Cleaned and maintained audio-visual equipment for long-term functionality and performance.
- Installed permanent audio-visual systems in corporate settings, improving communication and presentation capabilities.
- Identified and solved technical issues, applying knowledge to minimise disruptions and maintain signal strength.
- Developed custom audio-visual setups for special events, creating unique and memorable experiences for attendees.
- Conducted site visits to assess venues and plan optimal equipment placement for events, maximising audience engagement.
External Sales
Alpha Technologies
01.2016 - 06.2016
- Employed external sales and promotions teams to maximise campaign reach and revenue.
- Implemented innovative sales strategies, effectively adapting to changing market conditions and customer needs.
- Liaised with external vendors and partners to arrange guest services such as transportation and local tours.
Internal Sales Executive
AVC Technologies
09.2014 - 12.2015
- Implemented feedback mechanisms for clients, leading to improved product offerings and customer satisfaction.
- Maintained outstanding inter-departmental relationships to improve cross-selling and upselling opportunities.
- Delivered sales and product demo webinars that reduced costs and improved client access.
- Conducted comprehensive market research to identify emerging trends and adjust sales tactics accordingly.
- Managed customer relationships through consultative sales techniques to attain individual sales goals.
Sales and Technician
Sounds Unique
05.2011 - 08.2014
- Set up equipment to test and verify functionality and performance.
- Performed diagnostics and troubleshooting to evaluate equipment performance and increase reliability.
- Installed new technological equipment, following strict specifications and safety protocols.
- Provided technical support and training to junior technicians and new staff members.
- Managed inventory of spare parts and tools, ensuring availability for urgent repairs.
- Supported daily sales operations in the shop front.
- Completed demos with clients
Self Employed
Edwards Entertainment
10.2008 - 05.2011
- Developed marketing strategies to enhance sales for DSVT installation.
- Procured stock for installation projects, ensuring timely availability.
- Installed stock during projects to meet deadlines and specifications.
Sales and Technician
Studio Matrix
03.2006 - 09.2008
- Set up equipment to test and verify functionality and performance.
- Diagnosed and troubleshot equipment to enhance performance and reliability.
- Installed new technological equipment, following strict specifications and safety protocols.
- Provided technical support and training to junior technicians and new staff members.
- Managed inventory of spare parts and tools to support timely repairs.
- Assisted with day-to-day sales within the shop front.
- Demonstrated products to clients, highlighting key features and benefits.
Technician
Mersey Sounds
05.2004 - 03.2005
- Diagnosed and troubleshot equipment to enhance performance and reliability.
- Set up equipment to ensure optimal functionality and performance during tests.
- Configured and dismantled staging, lighting, displays, and sound equipment for seamless event execution.
- Set-up and de-installation of staging, lighting, displays and sound equipment.
- Managed inventory of spare parts and tools, ensuring availability for urgent repairs.
Education
Audio Visual Industry Training
Industry Courses
Randburg, GP01-2026
Certificate of Higher Education - Project Management Foundations
University Of Cape Town
Cape Town, WC01-2023
Diploma of Higher Education - Audio Industry Training
Inhouse Records
Randburg, GP01-2003
Certificate of Higher Education - High School
Piet Retief High School
Mpumalanga01-2000
Skills
- System testing
- Technical troubleshooting
- Technical documentation
- Equipment maintenance
- Project management
- Project coordination
- Budgeting and forecasting
- Client engagement
- Team collaboration
- Computer proficiency
Timeline
Commissioning Engineer
AVT Solutions
04.2025 - Current
Technical Manager
AVT Solutions
08.2023 - 04.2025
Site and Project Manager
AVT Solutions
03.2022 - 08.2023
Product Manager
VOX
09.2019 - 03.2022
Onsite Manager
Prosirius
09.2018 - 08.2019
AV Technician
Prosirius
07.2017 - 09.2018
External Sales
Alpha Technologies
01.2016 - 06.2016
Internal Sales Executive
AVC Technologies
09.2014 - 12.2015
Sales and Technician
Sounds Unique
05.2011 - 08.2014
Self Employed
Edwards Entertainment
10.2008 - 05.2011
Sales and Technician
Studio Matrix
03.2006 - 09.2008
Technician
Mersey Sounds
05.2004 - 03.2005
Audio Visual Industry Training
Industry Courses
Certificate of Higher Education - Project Management Foundations
University Of Cape Town
Diploma of Higher Education - Audio Industry Training
Inhouse Records
Certificate of Higher Education - High School
Piet Retief High School