Justin N.

Bid Writing Consultant / Creative Story Teller

With a degree in journalism and over two decades of experience working in the branding and media industry, I know what it takes to listen - and then convey that message appropriately. I am pragmatic, efficient, work well on deadlines, and am readily available for work. I would be a rich man if I'd earned a penny for every time someone has told me "that's a good idea". I have spent the last 18 months working as a bid writer for UK-based management consultancy whose clients include global lottery, charity and railroad companies. As such I have recent experience in preparing RFP submissions. I am not shy of any writing or editing work, and additionally have experience in the medical field as an addiction counsellor. I have worked as journalist and columnist for years for SA newspapers and magazines, specializing in leadership, arts and entertainment, and the green sector. I'm curious about the world and always eager to learn new things. I have published over ten books in South Africa and am highly proficient in copy writing, research, editing, and project conceptualization. I'm passionate about sport and music, and I read a lot. There was a time in my life when I was a famous satirist, or iconoclast. I made a T shirt at university that satirized the Carling Beer Black Label logo (it read "Black Labour, White Guilt") and I got sued by them (SABMiller) and it went on to set international legal precedent in the Constitutional Court with freedom of expression trumping trademark protection. As such I am well versed in branding and marketing nuance, and am au fait with legalese and can process high volumes of complex legal documents, distilling them into simple, digestible opinions. Recent proof of this (for me at least) was when I graduated cum laude from UCT's Psychiatry Department with a counseling degree in 2018. I was able to study full-time for two years, while still being a full-time parent who is trying to make financial ends meet. I have a wicked sense of humour and still make funny T shirts (www dot laughitoff dot co dot za). I know my em-dashes from my en-dashes. I enjoy long, romantic walks on the beach.. oh wait, wrong profile! I live a life of hedonistic delight in the mountains of Bainskloof (www dot mcbains dot co dot za) where I balance online writing challenges with cold water plunges in the Witte River. I would say that I'm a people's person. But that I also love reading in bed on my own. I would ask that you give me a chance with your job as I promise that I will not let you down, should we agree on the terms and conditions. Thank you for your consideration, Justin.