About me

• Executive Creative Director at Brandstorm in United States
• Studied: BA Hons Graphic Design, 1979
• Contact me on LinkedIn

About my career

I was born in Manchester and did not have the where-with all to live away from home, so I saw Manchester Polytechnic as a great option for me, especially as it had a stellar reputation as a school of art.

Immediately after I completed my studies, I moved to London where I worked for a boutique agency called Davidson Pearce. I was initially an art director but quickly crossed over roles to become a copywriter as I felt it better suited my conceptual side. I had to quickly learn how to write!

Fast forward to today and I am currently an executive consultant with Brandstorm, a full-service creative problem-solving agency in the north of Chicago. I have an eclectic list of clients both local and international.

I think my conceptual skills came through at Manchester Poly. How to ‘think outside the box’ and looks sideways to creatively problem solve, whether it is with words, images or paint. This has stayed with me as I have moved into film/video, digital and traditional media challenges.

During the time of my studies, I did also complete a couple of placements in London. I worked for a couple of top-notch creative shops so I witnessed some of the biggest brands at that time create advertising that reached millions. I fell in love with the process and moved to London immediately after graduation. I don’t believe I would have done this without the placements arranged by MP.

I believe my career has been the biggest teacher. I learned so much along the way from good (and bad) mentors, and when I found myself in a position of leadership I really gave back to the younger talent coming up behind me.

My top tip for students

Have a portfolio (digital or suchlike) that you never ever give up trying to update. Just like the painting of the Golden Gate bridge, it is a process that should never end. Even now, 40 years into my career I update my portfolio. Secondly, know your audience. When you present to prospective employers do your homework and find out all you can about them and present your work to what they want … not what you have. It’s sales 101.

I’m inspired by

Creatives who push the boundaries, whether it is music, art, writing or even science.

Why I love Manchester Met

It was a time of personal and intellectual growth. I went from a school kid with a folder full of drawings to a professional in those 4 years.

Tell your story

• Share your details