Bob Swinbank

I have worked as a freelance in graphic design and related areas for more than thirty years, which is another way of saying I haven't had a proper job since 1983!

To provide this kind of service often requires more than a superficial understanding of a company's activities. For this reason I have had the privilege of looking into the workings of hundreds of businesses and seen first-hand what works and, importantly, what doesn't.

Over those years I have seen the industry turned upside-down, from a time when type was physically cast in hot metal to today when I have powerful digital tools at my fingertips. My skills have extended to include image manipulation, technical illustration and digital media in a rapidly evolving field. The one certainty is that things will continue to change.

Clients have included start-ups, blue chip companies and government departments. I could list them here but it might be easier if you check out my Linkedin profile. (Some of those start-ups became PLCs so rest assured that if all you need is a logo right now I'm not going to be sniffy about it.)

If I have a specialism at all it would be for environmental marketing. When I'm not doing this I'm involved with my Tree Appeal activities. Tree Appeal plants trees, mainly in schools, which are paid for by corporate sponsors. We've planted more than 300,000 trees, won loads of awards and are now in our 10th year. If I can see a green angle to your business you can be sure I'll let you know about it!

There are a number of ways in which the working relationship can be structured, for example:

• As an external marketing function for companies that don't have their own setup. Sometimes a retainer is paid, sometimes the work is individually costed.

• As an adjunct to existing marketing processes, assisting when required on an ad hoc basis

• As a one-off project such as a brochure, catalogue or annual report

Often there will be a combination - flexibility is important.

So how much does this cost? The charge is directly related to time spent so I make the effort in advance to assess the work involved. Everything is costed and itemised so there are no surprises. It certainly doesn't cost anything to have a chat about it so drop me a line or call me on 01388 529402 and we can get started.