Lesley van der Nest

Client Partner

BA (Sociology and Psychology) (Stellenbosch University), PGCert (Marketing and Advertising Communications) (Red & Yellow Creative School of Business)

Lesley brings experience that lets her ask the questions clients haven't thought to ask yet, and turn client ambition into digital outcomes.

Lesley has built her career across some of the biggest agency networks in the world. From Deputy Managing Director at FCB Africa (co-leading operations and senior client relationships for brands including Capitec, Pernod Ricard and MTN) to Managing Partner at Ogilvy One in South Africa, to Group Account Director at Wellcom Worldwide in Sydney. Her expertise spans digital strategy, CRM, customer experience and digital transformation, with a particular passion for guiding organisations through change.

What sets Lesley apart is her instinct for helping clients get clear on what they truly need, then making sure it actually gets delivered. She's sustained client relationships spanning 12 and 23 years respectively, the kind of longevity that only comes from genuine trust and consistently evolving alongside the people you work with.

Outside work, you'll find her at the gym, on a yoga mat, or somewhere outdoors, exploring new places, eating really good food, and occasionally baking when the mood strikes.

Picture of Lesley van der Nest detail shot

Quick facts about Lesley

Favourite emoji

Star sign

Libra

Chinese zodiac

🐂Ox

Inspired by

Lesley is inspired by beauty in its many forms: a place with the right light at the right hour, a space that makes you feel something, art, nature, words, food, people and places. Above all, she is inspired by people who live their values.

Fun fact

Lesley has skydived and jumped off bridges across Africa. For Lesley, it was never about chasing adrenaline, it was about feeling fully alive. Interestingly, walking barefoot gives her exact the same feeling!

There's more where Lesley came from

It takes a constellation of talents to create great experiences. Here are a few more of the stellar individuals that make Luminary shine.

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