Ella Groenewald

Results-driven, highly organized, and versatile professional with extensive experience bridging corporate operations, project coordination, and creative design. Proven track record in managing administration, facilities, and end-to-end production pipelines across engineering, education, and creative apparel industries. Demonstrated ability to master complex design software, streamline workflows, manage inventory, and maintain high standards of quality control.

Adept at turning conceptual ideas into high-quality physical products while ensuring strict operational efficiency.

Creative Director / Apparel & Design Operations Coordinator at JA NE Custom apparel and crafts (2024-01 – Present)

• Oversee the end-to-end design, development, and production of custom apparel and merchandise lines, translating client concepts into market-ready products.
• Utilize CorelDraw, Photoshop, and Lightburn to create precise vector assets, 3D designs, and intricate patterns for apparel laser cutting, engraving, and fabric applications.
• Coordinate daily studio operations, ensuring production timelines are met, machinery is maintained, and order fulfillment runs seamlessly.
• Manage stock levels for textiles, blanks, consumables, and production materials; implement cost-control measures to minimize waste during the manufacturing process.
• Conduct rigorous quality control checks on finished apparel and custom design pieces to ensure brand consistency and high-caliber craftsmanship.
• Act as the primary liaison for custom corporate and individual client accounts, managing design briefs, quotes, and supplier negotiations for raw materials.

Administrator / Project Planner / Operations Support at DUPRA ENGINEERING (PTY) LTD / DUPRA CONSULTING (PTY) LTD (2021-01 – 2024-04)

Provided full administrative and project planning support for large-scale mining and factory site projects.

• Assisted with project initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, and close-out phases.
• Maintained accurate project documentation, including daily logs, materials usage, and labor hours.
• Managed job-site consumables and ensured work areas remained organized, safe, and compliant with health and safety regulations.
• Oversaw budget tracking for administrative functions and ensured operational expenditure remained within limits.
• Coordinated compliance audits, managed COIDA claims/submissions, and handled SARS administration (registrations, compliance, and outstanding returns).
• Interviewed, recruited, and onboarded administrative staff while streamlining office processes to improve efficiency.

Matron / Facilities Manager at HOËR VOLKSKOOL HEIDELBERG HOSTEL (KOSHUIS) (2017-01 – 2024-04)

Managed the overall operations, safety, asset management, and appearance of a large boarding-house facility.

• Successfully project-managed the renovation of over 80% of hostel facilities, improving safety and increasing capacity by more than 400 learners.
• Reopened and managed a historic main hall for events and functions, generating additional revenue streams dedicated to facility renovations.
• Supervised maintenance teams, subcontractors, building repairs, and infrastructure upgrades.
• Managed facility safety systems (CCTV), conducted regular risk assessments, and oversaw rigid inventory and supplier coordination.
• Coordinated school events, catering operations (menu planning, pricing), and managed the recruitment and onboarding of hostel staff.

Grade 12