At Manchester Digital, we like to interview our members to find out a bit more about what they do and their work in the Greater Manchester digital and technology sphere. This week we're speaking with Chris Buckley, Founder of Pixel Kicks.
Please, introduce yourself…
My name is Chris Buckley, and I’m the founder of Pixel Kicks which is a full-service digital agency based in Ancoats. We work across website design, SEO and paid advertising, as well as photography and brand development. Our focus is always on adding commercial value whether that’s profile-raising, driving sales and enquiries or some other agreed measurable. We are all passionate about creating creating truly innovative and forward-thinking digital platforms and campaigns for our clients who mostly operate in the healthcare, education, manufacturing, professional services, hospitality and FMCG sectors. I set the business up back in 2011 and we are now a team of 20. It’s all completely boot-strapped with zero external investment.
Tell us something that we might not know about your company?
We used to build music entertainment websites and grow their communities online. Collectively they had millions of visitors each month.
What do you enjoy most about working at Pixel Kicks?
So many, but I thrive on constantly growing and evolving the business, helping our clients overcome their own specific challenges and working with the team. I love the fact every day is different from the last. All those things combined are what makes the job so enjoyable.
What would you consider to be your Pixel Kicks biggest achievements over the last 12 months?
There’s no doubting the economic climate has been tricky so navigating the business through that has been a challenge, but it’s one that we have all pulled together on. Our team shares a collective vision of doing great work and delivering for our clients. That makes a massive difference and it’s why we’ve grown, despite some serious headwinds. Also, it’s been great to really develop, and build on, our specialist areas - leading with healthcare and education.
What do you think is currently the biggest issue facing the tech industry?
The rise of AI – especially as businesses are already replacing certain roles with AI. In my view, AI is a tool that can enhance the work an agency does, but is not something that should replace people. Culture is the heart of every agency, so learning how best to integrate AI within an existing team is the way to go.
What is Pixel Kicks biggest achievement?
Establishing a reputation as being a respected, full-service agency that delivers excellent work – especially in the healthcare sector. Over the years we have grown our presence and expertise in that area, thanks in a large part to the work we’ve done for so many of the UK’s leading audiology businesses on their digital presence. We’ve only just started though!
What would you consider to be your organisation’s biggest challenge?
Building our team which is a problem that businesses of all sizes have. We try to maintain a Manchester core, but we also have fully remote members of the team who blend in seamlessly. We have to make Pixel Kicks an attractive to work in order to recruit the best talent, and that means balancing wages, environment, benefits and culture.
What do you think the future looks like for Manchester’s tech sector?
Is it possible to think anything less than hugely positive? Manchester has earned a reputation of being the best digital city outside of London. We regularly win business from London-based companies that are looking for a more cost-effective, yet no less creative or strategic, partner without the high fees associated with agencies in the capital. I firmly believe that Manchester’s digital and creative community has the talent and vision to build on its already enviable reputation – both in the UK and globally.
What emerging tech trends and innovations are you excited about in 2024?
The continuing evolution of AI as it can’t be ignored. Our team uses it daily, and we all share ideas about new ways of adopting it to benefit our clients. It’s essential to embrace AI, otherwise you’ll get left behind. As I said previously though, it shouldn’t be to the detriment of people as culture and creativity will be compromised. No digital, or any business for that matter, can thrive without them in the long-term.
What excites you most about joining the Manchester Digital Community?
Building up our network in the city even further and hopefully sharing ideas.
Thank you Chris!
Find out more about Pixel Kicks here
