Ever wondered what it's like to work at one of Greater Manchester's leading tech employers or what specific job roles get up to each day?
Rich Reid is a Senior Digital Project Owner at ThinkEQ.
We spoke to him to find out more about this role, his experience at ThinkEQ, and what an average day looks like.
Name: Rich Reid
Company: ThinkEQ
Job Title: Senior Digital Project Owner
How did you get into your current role?
I've always been creative and enjoyed designing, building and making things, so after art college, I did a BTEC HND in product design. After graduating, I saw an opportunity to change my focus from product to graphics. After teaching myself the basics, I was fortunate to get a design studio job!
I have been a creative designer for over 25 years and love it. The landscape has changed a lot; with a shift towards a digital mindset, there's not so much off-line work these days, and themes and trends come and go, but the main design principles remain, and I really couldn't see myself doing anything else.
What do you enjoy most about working at ThinkEQ?
Having spent time working in different design agencies over the years, I am so happy to be part of a creative team that has the balance of incredible creativity and each team member bringing their talent to work collaboratively to produce fantastic work. Focussing not only on our work but also on the individuals within the team. Helping each team member be the best version of themselves benefits the work we produce and the culture within the team.
What types of projects does your organisation typically undertake, and what are the typical project goals and objectives?
We work with a creative portfolio of clients in a variety of sectors, including healthcare, construction and property. Predominantly in the digital space but not exclusively. Ultimately, we have the experience within the team to cover all elements of design and creativity as and when it is the right thing to help our clients achieve their goals.
Have you developed new skills whilst being in the role?
I feel like I have grown in several areas since being part of the ThinkEQ team, specifically in leadership, account management and project management. Having the opportunity to take the lead on various accounts and projects over the last few years has really helped me develop in management and leadership skills.
What is the Head of Design role in your organisation, and how does it fit into the wider team?
I have been in this position for about two years. Heading up everything design that comes through the agency. I am not naive enough to think that I have to design everything and that my design ideas are always the best, but working with members of the creative team to steer the client to the best solution to help them succeed. I also have a solid connection with our development team. Collaboration is a massive part of EQ's culture; having a bigger-picture view of digital projects helps us deliver the best work on time and budget.
What does a typical day look like for you?
Each day can look different depending on what the current project we're working on. A few standard things don't change throughout my week, such as meetings, project management and lots and lots of emails. There are a few particular things I couldn't do without either, such as coffee, food, music and breaks from my screen!
What opportunities are there for professional development and growth within your organisation?
One of the many things I love about ThinkEQ is that we want people to be themselves. There's no pressure to be someone you're not. Through regular catch-ups and 1-2-1s, we're always trying to identify where we need to improve, grow and develop. We recognise that as each individual grows and develops, the team benefits. We produce better work; we collaborate better and have better relationships with our clients and each other.
What excites you the most about the work?
One of my big things is being able to help people. Whether that be team members or clients. If we can produce some fantastic work and the whole team feels they're contributing, that's the best day!
Have you learned anything new since you started?
The past 3 or 4 years have been the most significant for me. Much of that concerns what has happened in our world and not just within the business. What has happened has made me reassess what is important in my life. In the past, I have given more time, resources and money to things that were probably wrongly placed. Life is too short; enjoy every day, and make sure to think of the big picture!
