Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
LNGG
References
Timeline
Generic

Tanya Pienaar

Durban

Summary

Resourceful and results-driven professional with over 15 years of cross-industry experience spanning executive administration, travel coordination, event management, and creative media. Demonstrates exceptional organizational acumen, adaptability across global environments, and a proven ability to optimize operational workflows. Adept at navigating high-pressure roles with precision and professionalism, with a strong foundation in hospitality, logistics, and client service excellence.

Overview

20
20
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Executive Assistant

Hillcrest
01.2024 - Current
  • Processed monthly payroll for 147 employees, ensuring timely disbursement and compliance with HR standards
  • Provided professional administrative support during board meetings, including agenda preparation and minute-taking duties.
  • Supported executives in decision-making processes by conducting research and presenting findings in clear formats.
  • Delivered exceptional organizational support enabling executive focus on high-level strategic initiatives fostering company growth.
  • Developed internal and client-facing presentations and reports for executive stakeholders
  • Maintained employee records and supported onboarding processes for new hires and third-party contractors
  • Oversaw all event planning initiatives including company expos, charity events, and golf tours
  • Managed invoice processing, vendor payments, and collaborated with Accounts Receivable on billing adjustments
  • Handled confidential and sensitive information with discretion and tact.
  • Managed executive calendars, scheduling meetings and appointments and coordinating travel arrangements to optimize time.

Freelance Business Consultant

Self Employed Services
07.2022 - 08.2023
  • Delivered tailored business solutions, including branding, marketing strategy, and digital design
  • Negotiated contracts and managed project execution from concept to delivery
  • Built long-term client relationships through high-quality service and efficient project delivery
  • Developed business strategies by conducting comprehensive market research and competitor analysis.
  • Delivered successful projects within tight deadlines, ensuring consistent client satisfaction and timely project completion.

Onboard Photographer

MSC Cruises
12.2021 - 06.2022
  • Captured and curated high-quality photography for both onboard and port-based guest experiences
  • Conducted formal portrait sessions and event coverage including gala evenings and embarkation days
  • Drove gallery sales through visual merchandising and guest interaction
  • Delivered high-quality images under tight deadlines, demonstrating strong time management skills.
  • Planned and prepared for on-location and studio shoots.
  • Utilized natural and artificial lighting to capture desired images and maintain quality.

Online Business Manager

The Crayon Evangelist
01.2019 - 11.2021
  • Oversaw digital marketing operations, funnel creation, and social media strategy
  • Provided executive-level virtual assistance including scheduling, email management, and financial tracking
  • Hosted webinars and coordinated online events, ensuring smooth technical execution

Studio Photographer

Fashion World
01.2016 - 12.2019
  • Executed commercial and lifestyle photography for print and digital campaigns
  • Edited and delivered professional-grade content for various client portfolios
  • Managed all aspects of studio operations including client relations and shoot logistics
  • Mentored junior photographers on composition techniques, lighting arrangements, and post-production work.
  • Promoted a collaborative work environment among team members by sharing knowledge about best practices in photography techniques and equipment usage.
  • Developed creative concepts in collaboration with clients to achieve their desired outcomes for each project.
  • Utilized advanced retouching techniques to enhance images according to client specifications while preserving natural aesthetics.
  • Balanced multiple projects simultaneously while meeting tight deadlines without compromising on quality or attention to detail.

Warehouse Coordinator

DB Schenker
01.2014 - 12.2015
  • Managed inventory for 22 client accounts, developed internal SOPs, and optimized warehouse space
  • Handled client billing, maintained stock accuracy, and ensured compliance with safety protocols
  • Interfaced with vendors and served as front-of-house representative when needed
  • Helped keep inventory accurate by overseeing daily cycle counts.
  • Trained new team members in warehouse procedures, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and skill development.
  • Performed data entry to maintain accurate records of inventory levels and shipping and receiving logs for management reports.
  • Enhanced warehouse efficiency by implementing effective inventory management strategies and streamlining processes.

Accounting Administrator

Tirepoint
01.2005 - 12.2013
  • Reconciled bank and ledger accounts; managed payables/receivables
  • Supported financial audits and daily cash transactions
  • Maintained office supply chain and reception duties
  • Prepared accurate cash flow reports.
  • Managed all petty cash.

Education

Diploma - Hospitality and Tourism Management

Allison
08.2023

High School Diploma -

Birchleigh High School
01-2004

Skills

  • Executive Assistance & Calendar Management
  • Payroll & HR Administration
  • Event Coordination (Corporate & Public)
  • Creative Marketing & Social Media Management
  • Project Coordination & Operations
  • Financial Administration & Reporting
  • Digital Design (Adobe Creative Suite)
  • Photography & Media Production
  • Customer Service & Client Relations
  • Inventory & Warehouse Operations
  • Executive support
  • Administrative support
  • Office management
  • Strong problem solver

Certification

  • Global Distribution Systems: Fares & Ticketing (AMADEUS) – IATA | Mar 2025
  • 120-Hour TEFL Certificate – World TESOL Academy | Aug 2022
  • Sea Certification South Africa (2021–2022):
  • ENG1 Medical | Crowd Management
  • Personal Survival Techniques | Fire Prevention & Fire Fighting
  • Security Awareness | Elementary First Aid
  • Personal Safety & Social Responsibility

LNGG

English
Romanian

References

Available upon request

Timeline

Executive Assistant

Hillcrest
01.2024 - Current

Freelance Business Consultant

Self Employed Services
07.2022 - 08.2023

Onboard Photographer

MSC Cruises
12.2021 - 06.2022

Online Business Manager

The Crayon Evangelist
01.2019 - 11.2021

Studio Photographer

Fashion World
01.2016 - 12.2019

Warehouse Coordinator

DB Schenker
01.2014 - 12.2015

Accounting Administrator

Tirepoint
01.2005 - 12.2013

Diploma - Hospitality and Tourism Management

Allison

High School Diploma -

Birchleigh High School

Similar Profiles

CREATE PROFILE
Tanya Pienaar