Mark Hinch

About

The spaces we live, work and connect in continue to evolve, and as digital technology makes its way into more and more of our buildings and devices, the space of the future is certain to be connected in myriad ways. I choose to focus on the point at which technology and human experience meet and my goal is to have a positive impact on the ways we connect with our physical environments and the objects within them.

Having worked at various corporate media & video game companies from London to LA in the mid-00's, I spent the subsequent 15 years creating, learning and leading at inspiring studios in Amsterdam until 2021, eventually deciding to freelance and consult — which is where you find me right now.

I am passionate about crafting experiences that are richer and more considerate, not simply more efficient and novel. Combining my years of technical & leadership experience with my in-depth knowledge and experience with smart devices, platforms and their related technologies, I can work with you to get your studio, pitch, product, event or project up and running.

South African-born, British passport holding, proud Amsterdammer since 2010 — with a Dutch Verblijfsvergunning. My written and spoken Dutch is very good, though English remains my language of choice. I have a background in software engineering, with extensive experience in both large corporate media and small creative studio environments, spanning development, infrastructure, operations and studio leadership. I've worked on and led projects ranging from bespoke one-off installations to massive global platform development and rollouts. My expertise and passion lie at the meeting point of cutting-edge technology and considered human experience.

Capabilities

Skills

Backend development
Python · C++ · PHP
Frontend development
HTML · CSS · JavaScript
Infrastructure & tools
Docker · PM2 · Git · AWS · Linux · DevOps
IoT & embedded systems
Arduino · ESP32 · ZigBee · Matter · MQTT
Soft skills
Team & project leadership · Client liaison

Experience

  • Head of Technology, HUUB

    2024 – Present

    Amsterdam

    Head of technology and lead engineer, working with a small team to build AI-powered services.

  • Freelancer, Markable

    2021 – Present

    Amsterdam

    IT consulting and freelance services. Developing and managing digital projects for a diverse range of clients.

  • Technical Director, Random Studio

    2016 – 2021

    Amsterdam

    Primary studio technical leadership, including oversight of all technical divisions. Managed numerous global interactive installations and projects.

  • Backend Lead, De Correspondent

    2012 – 2015

    Amsterdam

    Led backend engineering for crowdfunding and overall platform development. Designed and developed core systems and APIs.

  • Lead Backend Engineer, Momkai

    2010 – 2015

    Amsterdam

    Developed numerous award-winning backend & web development projects.

  • Junior/Senior Web Developer, SEGA

    2006 – 2010

    London

    Primary website, gaming portal and console game microsite development.

  • UMD Engineer, Technicolor

    2005 – 2006

    London & Los Angeles

    Programmed menus for cinematic releases on UMD, the Sony PlayStation PSP format.