About me
Founding partner, creative director and highly experienced designer. I've learned a few things during my 20 plus years working with highly recognisable brands from around the world, like how to get the most out of a brief, how to understand a VAT return and most of all, how this really is a people business.
Along with freelancing at various agencies, I settled into a great brand consultancy working with blue-chip brands. In 2002 I decided there was an opportunity to set up my own agency, and promote the close working relationship between client and designer. 1977 Design launched with 1 laptop and 1 client, working hard we became a studio of 10 working for diverse clients across finance, architecture, technology, sports, leisure and the entertainment sectors.
I am passionate about design, it's role in shaping the world and how its influence can make it a little bit better for everyone. One of my main lessons I've built into the studio is to ask "why
Leading the studio, from overseeing all creative output, budgeting, managing work flow, client presentations and guiding our team to develop as designers - whilst also managing the business side of things has allowed me to experience many of the challenges and opportunities that not only design studios, but businesses of all types, face on a daily basis.
I've worked for all kinds of clients from all over the world and won a few awards. Some favourites have included work for AELTC, Arsenal FC, Adidas, EMI, SONY, Paramount Pictures, TFL, World Rugby and recently SIlverstone Circuit. The studio has always been diverse, from one off high end promotional pieces, licensed merchandise and general marketing communications through to complete brand strategies, brand development and implementation, as well as full museum, retail and visitor attraction graphic packages.
I have written for various industry publications (Design Week, MADE, The Drum, The Modern Game, Start Up etc). I have an interest in design education and have run design modules at University of Kent, and given talks at the University of Northumbria as well as held various portfolio surgeries. I am currently involved in setting up 'The Punctuation Club - Stop & Talk' design events in Brighton.
I have recently launched a book publishing business, where I designed, illustrated and produced a range of officially licensed children's books based on hit songs with Sony/ATV. You can see the books and buy them via my website
Skills
Art Direction, Brand / Logo Design, brand strategy, Branding, Graphic Design, mentoring, Studio Management, visitor experience
Sector Experience
Architecture, Arts, entertainment, Finance, Museums, Sports, start ups
Awards
Design Museum Designs of the Year - Shortlisted
Clients
Adidas, AELTC, Arsenal FC, Ascot, Benoy, Chelsea FC, Cision, EMI, Hospital of St Johns & St Elizabeth, Manchester United, Mitchells & Butlers, Paramount Pictures, Silverstone Circuit, Sony/ATV, South Africa Rugby Union, Transport for London, Wembley Stadium, Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum, World Rugby, York Minster