 Marc Schwinges (CEO) Marc “I only vant to hear vone klick!” Schwinges is one of the founding partners of Underdog and began his career in film and television when he was just a pup himself. He graduated from the Cape Town Film and Television School in 1988 and joined Young & Rubicam in Johannesburg where he held the position of Studio Manager and Senior Video Editor. Marc is a former National Chair of the Independent Producer’s Organisation. While only in his late 30's – he is recognised as a respected industry veteran. Marc has strong management abilities, having run Underdog in South Africa for so many years in an often difficult economic climate. His technical, creative, production, communication and industry knowledge guide his work as he continues to learn in an industry that is constantly evolving. Our leader serves as consultant to governments, NGOs and broadcasters as well as in the private sector. He has produced award-winning work in multiple media, which has been seen and recognised all over the world. He is known for his mentorship initiatives, giving back to the industry, community and making many an aspirant film-maker’s dreams come true. It is rumoured amongst those who know him well that Marc occasionally finds time to sleep though we cannot confirm this. He is currently Treasurer and Executive board member for the Documentary Filmmakers’ Association. He sits on the Intellectual Property Committee of the industry’s umbrella body SASFED which he frequently represents in an official capacity. Our Mr. Schwinges deals with client issues with German efficiency and proudly South African friendliness, which keeps his staff on their toes and his clients smiling.
Nomali “show me the numbers” Dube is Financial Manager and all-round quiet, boss lady at the Kennels. She joined Underdog Productions in 1998 with little experience and is now an expert in her field and a proud mother of two. Her work involves daily management of the company’s detailed accounts; keeping the puppies in check and taking no prisoners – though she is seldom found without a warm smile on her face. She holds certificates in Reception & Switchboard as well as Bookkeeping & Accounts. Nomali is working towards her BCompt Degree through UNISA, which Underdog is sponsoring. To be sure – this lady’s know-how is not to be sniffed at!
Tracey “anything but butter-fingers” Butterfield is our Art Director, creating works for multiple platforms including Web, Print and Multimedia. Having started her career in the early days of the Internet with Internet Solutions, she was snapped up by Underdog in 2002. She can craft a design from concept to production with breakneck efficiency and has worked on projects such as loveLife, Transnet, Standard Bank, Sasol and Anglo Platinum. If this doesn’t keep her busy enough – she’s a mommy too – just to make sure she’s never without something to do. Tracey’s zest for life spurs her creations and it is with keen interest and wonderment that she immerses herself in new projects.
Jabu “don’t worry I will sort it out immediately” Msimanga is the quiet man behind it all here at Kennels. He joined Underdog in 2007 and has been ensuring the smooth running of the Kennels ever since. Jabu’s duties include the upkeep of the premises, ensuring the Kennels are always well stocked and that all the dogs have kibble. Jabu also sees to it that our clients receive deliveries speedily and with his famous (particularly with the ladies) charm.
Jared-John “don’t hate me because I’m gorgeous” Butterfield joined the Underdog team in September 2008 as a Designer. Jared has received trophies for Art and Technical Drawing and won an Art competition for drawing. A life-long student in the web industry, Jared gives Underdog an edge with his artistic abilities. Jared likes to unwind in the gym after a long day at his desk – ensuring that his design skills are not the only reason no one will take on this gentle-natured muscle man.
Megan “it makes my skin crawl” Badenhorst started out at Underdog in 2007 as a production assistant, having completed her BA (Honours) degree in Johannesburg. Thanks to Marc’s careful teaching and her willingness to learn, she was quickly promoted to Production Manager for the Woman of The Year 2007 project. After a brief time away from Underdog, she returned in 2008 to take up position as Line Producer on Community Builder of the Year 2008. Keeping her trusty anti-bacterial spray bottle handy – she has a clean desk and a big smile. Megan prides herself on being super-efficient and always willing to go the extra mile. |