Resume
Work
Experience
Creativity has always been part of my DNA. From my school days, I was drawn to ideas, visuals, and storytelling — a natural path that led me into advertising. Over the years, that early passion has grown into a career spanning global campaigns, award-winning work, and brand ideas that deliver real impact. It’s more than a job — it’s how I see the world, and how I help others shape theirs.
Jan 2024 - Present
Self Employed | Senior Creative Specialist
Part-time contracts for ad agencies and independent clients. Short contract for Red Cross Children's Hospital. Developing my hobby as an artist: www.darrenmckay.art
Jul 2021 -
Jan 2024
Founder | General Manager | Director, Emakina ZA PTY, South Africa
Responsible for the South African entity (EMEA) for Emakina.ZA PTY as their founding manager and director in Cape Town, complimenting their rapidly expanding global footprint in the digital, e-commerce and tech engineering arena. Operational manager for EPAM systems aquisition 2024.
Jul 2009 -
Jul 2020
Founder | Director | Executive Creative Director, The Greenhouse Advertising Agency
Founded and managed the full service TTL advertising and marketing agency. Managed all business development and creative output.
Jan 2005 -
Jun 2009
Executive Creative Director, The Jupiter Drawing Room, Cape Town | Co-director BRFC, Cape Town
After a long career span with Jupiter's I was appointed by the JDR Exco to start up a new division, The Black River Football Club (BRFC), an integrated creative agency. Secured new accounts, set up teams and structures and managed the creative organisation. Left to open The Greenhouse Advertising Agency
Education
Jan 1990 -
Jan 1993
Cape Tech | Advanced Diploma, Graphic Design , Advertising
A 3 year Diploma (now Degree) in Cape Tech's Art faculty. Graduated cum laude.
1987
Matric | SACS High School, Cape Town
Top achiever in the subject of art at SACS.