Scaling Creative Businesses Through Design-Led Operational Strategy

A core driver of my work is unlocking the latent potential within businesses, teams, and opportunities.

I joined a creative consultancy initially as Chief Design Officer (CDO), before also assuming the role of Chief Operating Officer (COO). The initial mandate was to stabilise operations and elevate design output. However, it quickly became clear that the business had significantly greater untapped potential.

Following my transition into the COO role, I led a full restructuring of the service model and operational framework. This shift aligned capability, delivery, and commercial focus across the organisation.

The results were substantial: revenue growth of over 400% within 12 months, achieved without additional marketing spend or capital expenditure. Alongside this, a stronger internal culture was established—focused on collaboration, mentorship, and delivery excellence. For the first time in the company’s history, clients were consistently progressing from engagement through to successful market launch.

A black and orange thermal water bottle device with measurement markings and a red light at the base, placed on a reflective surface against a dark background.

Close-up of a black thermal water bottle with a red base, set against a black background with subtle lighting highlighting its shape.

A small white thermal water bottle lighting pack, placed on a cork pad with red LED lighting underneath on a reflective black surface.

Three metallic thermal water bottles with diamond-patterned grips, one standing upright and two laying on the ground, set against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains and a cloudy sky.

A white and gray thermal water bottle with a glowing red top, standing in front of a mountain landscape with black and white colors, and some plants near the robot.

Close-up view of a tool, a metal component with several other metal parts around it, on a flat surface.

A modern, white, sculptural sink with a rounded top and open front, mounted on a brick wall. A metallic faucet is positioned above the urinal. The background features a red and gray brick wall and an illuminated area behind the urinal.

View of a sink with a raised seat and metal handlebars, positioned against a brick wall in a bathroom.

Collage of bike lock parts including handle grips, brake and clutch levers, screws, bolts, and other small components on a light gray background.

An exploded view of a bicycle lock parts showing components such as the internal mechanism, body, and mounting hardware.

A bike lock with a black, orange, and green sticker that says 'LEWIS LOCK,' with a silver tone arm, set against a background split between black and gray.