The Yorkshire Times – Leo Parker gives his 10 in 10.
What does a typical working day for you involve?
I have a varied role which spans the involvement in brand projects, team and client briefings, daily client liaison, ongoing marketing work and a growing involvement in client workshops, my actual craft – brand identity development.
What makes your company special?
One thing that stands out is our level of service – so many organisations would say it, but I think we’ve all had first-hand experience of suppliers who treat you in the absolute opposite way to what you’d expect. Providing a high level of service is our priority, and because everyone in the team believes in that priority, it’s easy to uphold.
We also work very strategically with our clients and apply design thinking to ensure we’re designing businesses not just brands. This is an emerging trend among consultancies in the UK, but we know from our links with industry bodies that we’re ahead.
Do you have any business rules that you swear by?
One that I’ve come to learn is that it’s ok to say “no!” We’ve all been guilty in the past of saying “yes” too often to jobs we perhaps shouldn’t have, and we’ve usually all come to regret it for one reason or another.
Do you dress up or down for work?
Very down – suits are for weddings!
What piece of advice would you give to your 18-year-old self?
I can actually think of quite a few, but overall, I’d say “get out of your comfort zone” – I used to shy away from things I didn’t have the confidence to do, but now wish I hadn’t. Oh and save!
What’s your favourite Yorkshire venue for an event or team away day?
I’d say the Yorkshire Sculpture park. We’ve had an away day there for our own team and enjoyed some time out among the countryside before using their meeting rooms. We’ve also held a couple of brand launches in their auditorium. It’s a peaceful, creative place to do some thinking.
How do you prefer to travel for business?
I wish I could say it was by private jet! But my daily commute is in the car – I can listen to my own music and work to my own schedule, without being dependent on questionable train services. Occasionally I’ll cycle the 7 miles down the canal to work.
What’s your favourite place in Yorkshire to relax?
Being out on the hills – the Pennines are on my doorstep. I love mountain biking or walking over Marsden Moor and further afield.
Where is your favourite place to eat in Yorkshire, and what dish do you recommend?
I haven’t been for a while, but I love the Olive Branch on the way to Marsden – my ‘go to’ dish for a special treat was always the Scallops with the Swiss cheese.
What do you miss most about Yorkshire when you are away?
Getting out in the countryside! (Or my kids, if they’re not with me!)
