René Gopaul is a seasoned marketing and communications professional. Her career spans nearly two decades in the professional services industry across global and regional markets. As the Marketing and Communications Director at Grant Thornton UAE, René plays a pivotal role in driving strategic growth, enhancing brand visibility, and delivering impactful client engagement initiatives aligned with the firm’s business priorities.
René’s career includes senior roles at three of the Big Four firms, with notable leadership positions in the Middle East and South Africa. She has successfully led high-impact, cross-functional campaigns, implemented marketing operations strategies, and delivered exceptional large-scale events for high-profile stakeholders. Her expertise lies in strategic planning and communications, workflow optimization, and aligning marketing with business development to unlock commercial opportunities with measurable outcomes.
Prior to joining Grant Thornton, René held senior roles including Associate Director at KPMG Lower Gulf, Head of Events at EY South Africa, and founder of Goya Signature Experiences – a recognized women-owned business. She holds qualifications in Conference, exhibition & event management and copywriting, and has completed advanced professional courses in coaching, writing, and strategic marketing.
- Diploma in Copywriting, The Blackford Centre
- The Four Levels of Writing Mastery, Udemy
- Conference, Exhibition & Event Management, Damelin
