Phone

09 579 2380

chrisc@degroup.co.nz

Chris Clews

Managing Director

Chris started DE Group. That was over 35 years ago.

In all that time, he’s never lost his passion for clever design, building things and solving problems. He’s built a strong team, too.

These days, Chris leaves a lot of the day-to-day responsibility in their hands, but you won’t find him far from the workshop, checking out what’s going on and making some ‘helpful’ suggestions.

Seriously, we’re lucky to have him. Chris is a relentless advocate for getting all the bugs ironed out, so our clients get an easy ride. It’s a customer-centric culture that gets results.

And it means he can truly relax when he goes fishing or hangs out at the bach on Rakino Island.

Phone

09 579 2380

chrisc@degroup.co.nz

Phone

09 579 2380

markc@degroup.co.nz

Mark Clews

General Manager

Give Mark the challenge of a major fit-out, and he’s in his happy place. He loves the variety and intensity of bringing a project to life.

Mark backs up this enthusiasm with a suite of practical skills, including architectural draughting and IT. He’s also up to speed on the all-important Site Safe and H&S requirements.

A true team player, Mark is great at managing multi-skilled groups and focusing them on our clients’ goals. He reckons that’s the only way to bring in a project on time and within budget.

After work, you might find him playing the saxophone or mixing tracks as a DJ. He’s also building his own race car.

As the old saying goes, if you want something done, get a busy man to do it.

Phone

09 579 2380

markc@degroup.co.nz

Phone

09 579 2380

edwardf@degroup.co.nz

Edward Fuller

Design Manager

Every day is different when you work at DE Group. That’s doubly true when your title is Design Manager.

In the morning, Edward might be overseeing a pop-up store for a major brand. In the afternoon he’ll be crafting an exhibition stand for a key client. And the next day it’ll be a whole new set of challenges.

Edward has a Bachelor’s Degree in Design. He says he loves anything that combines thinking with creativity. Our clients get the benefit of Edward’s professional training, lateral thinking and ability to blend the logical with the unexpected.

He’s been in the industry for 24 years, and he says he still learning new things every day.

Phone

09 579 2380

edwardf@degroup.co.nz

Phone

09 579 2380

elap@degroup..co.nz

Ela Purnell

Designer

Ela’s design journey began in Cape Town, where her passion for problem-solving and creativity took shape. With a background in 3D design, she has crafted everything from luxury furniture and bespoke kitchen components to large-scale retail fit-outs.

With many years of hands-on experience, Ela thrives on tackling complex projects and bringing innovative solutions to life. Her expertise spans concept development, material selection, and precision execution—ensuring every design is as functional as it is visually striking.

She embraces challenges, working closely with teams and clients to transform ideas into standout spaces that leave a lasting impact.

Phone

09 579 2380

elap@degroup..co.nz

Phone

09 579 2380

andrewl@degroup.co.nz

Andrew Laird

Graphics and Signage Manager

Ask Andrew what motivates him, and he’ll say it’s seeing a creative point of difference executed on a completed job…and seeing the client’s delight when the signage is unveiled.

He’s inspired by the variety of signage tasks that come across his desk at DE Group. Large wayfinding projects in particular.

He modestly describes himself as a jack of all trades. But we think you should know he has a Bachelor of Visual Arts, so he understands the design principles that underpin the practical aspects of great signage.

Andrew is a firm believer of a work hard / play hard mindset with the aim to always go the extra mile to achieving maximum professional creative results and goals, alongside an active relaxer seeking a thrill where possible just ask me about my Mt Ruapehu experience antics.

Phone

09 579 2380

andrewl@degroup.co.nz

Phone

021 971 309

marjoreew@degroup.co.nz

Marjoree Wimmers

Business Development Manager

A business professional with 15+ years of experience in sales, marketing and event planning, Marjoree has built her career upon a deep understanding of customer needs, strategic focus, fresh ideas and delivering excellence. She has proven skills in the development, execution, stakeholder and project management of successful projects.

Marjoree trained in International Hospitality Management, specialising in Event Management, along side professional development courses over the year. Her experience in sales and marketing across a wide range of industries has proved invaluable when assisting clients with their projects. These days, you’ll find her helping companies like Meridian roll out their EV network and Chorus to drive return on investment through customer-centric initiatives.

A family person at heart, Marjoree spends a lot of time with her nearest and dearest and loves testing out her cooking skills in the kitchen.

Phone

021 971 309

marjoreew@degroup.co.nz

Phone

021 228 2289

stevec@degroup.co.nz

Steven Clews

Sales Executive

After training as a chef and spending several years in hospitality across New Zealand and the UK, Steven developed a strong skill set grounded in customer service, attention to detail, and the ability to perform under pressure, strengths he continues to bring to every project.

He began his career with the DE team as an installer, gaining firsthand experience of what’s required on-site and what it takes to deliver results when deadlines matter. This practical background enables him to anticipate challenges early and ensure projects run smoothly from start to finish.

Steven focuses on sales and leads major projects, or as he prefers to put it, “making sure the customer has the best possible experience.” His hands-on background means he’s never far from the action. If a last-minute adjustment is needed or someone needs to pick up a power tool.

Outside of work, Steven enjoys staying active and playing sport in his spare time.

Phone

021 228 2289

stevec@degroup.co.nz

Phone

09 579 2380

thivanka@degroup.co.nz

Thivanka Alwis

Project Co-ordinator

With over 10 years of experience in project management—and a solid foundation as a Production Manager leading large, lean-driven teams—Thivanka has developed a disciplined approach to efficiency, cost control, and continuous improvement.

Today, he brings that same structured mindset to project coordination, focusing on practical solutions, smooth delivery, and results that consistently exceed client expectations. He’s motivated by happy clients, high-performing teams, and the satisfying moment when a well-executed plan comes together (preferably on time and under budget). He thrives in collaborative environments built on ownership and trust.

Outside of work, Thivanka enjoys quality time with family, being outdoors, playing the guitar, and listening to music—sometimes well, sometimes enthusiastically. He’s passionate about personal and spiritual growth, guided by strong human values and a genuine appreciation for life’s simple, meaningful moments.

Phone

09 579 2380

thivanka@degroup.co.nz

Meet Our Creative Exhibition Design Experts

About

Our Team2025-09-04T14:10:47+12:00

It’s a bit of a business cliché to say that ‘people are our greatest asset.’ Nevertheless, it’s true. Without their clever minds and years of experience, we wouldn’t be able to pull off the designs and meet the deadlines of our clients. Here are some of the experts you’ll meet when you work with DE Group.

Chris Clews

Managing Director

Mark Clews

General Manager

Edward Fuller

Design Manager

Ela Purnell

Designer

Andrew Laird

Graphics and Signage Manager

Marjoree Wimmers

Business Development Manager

Steven Clews

Sales Executive

Thivanka Alwis

Project Co-ordinator

Get in touch.

Let’s create something special.

We’re always happy to meet and discuss what you’re looking for. Drop us a line and we’ll get in touch.

Phone

+64 9 579 2380

Email

info@degroup.co.nz

Head Office

10 Prescott St,
Penrose 1061,
Auckland, NZ

Postal Address

PO Box 12193,
Penrose 1642,
Auckland, NZ

Opening Hours

8:30am – 5:00pm

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Chris Clews2026-02-11T15:33:51+13:00
Mark Clews2026-02-11T15:41:00+13:00
Edward Fuller2026-02-11T15:35:22+13:00
Ela Purnell2026-02-11T15:36:21+13:00
Andrew Laird2026-02-11T15:33:04+13:00
Marjoree Wimmers2026-02-11T15:41:17+13:00
Steven Clews2026-02-11T15:38:35+13:00
Thivanka Alwis2026-02-24T16:50:36+13:00