When I was choosing my degree I wanted something that would allow me to exercise my creative side while ensuring it was linked to reality and the world of business. I eventually found a suitable course – albeit in Middlesbrough and one that would mean I was the only female on it!

Product Design & Marketing…

My life seems to be coming full circle now. After working within shopfitting and manufacturing metalwork and joinery for retail for over 15 years I now understand a lot more about what’s really needed.

For a long time I thought the metal we manufactured and that held clothes up for sale was most important …”check out the beautiful weld and finish of the wall system”… but no, that’s not what customers are buying. 

Clients are buying into increased sales and less headaches, no one cared about the metal or the joinery. How can shopfitters specify fittings if they don’t understand this? If they don’t understand the brand? If they do’t understand the business model?

And so here I am. I am loving working with clients to provide the links within their business. The same applies to the leisure industry, retail and any other business. We need to understand the whole concept and be willing to support the client. I aim to add value throughout the business and deliver something that a client really needs. I recognised it when choosing my degree and I understand it now… you can’t have just creativity or just business you need the whole package.