Gardiner Richardson creates managing director role

Jen Hallam has been appointed as managing director at strategic brand communications agency Gardiner Richardson.

The newly created role comes as co-founder Lucy Gardiner retires, with Jen joining Darren Richardson, co-founder and creative director, as well as Matt Forster, strategic communications director, to lead the business.

Jen, who joined the agency in 2022 as business development director, previously worked as an associate director at Tangerine Communications in Manchester and at Citypress. 

She will now oversee the strategic direction of the Newcastle-based agency, which provides brand communications for clients including EGGER, Akzonobel, Fresh & Balance, Muckle, Dicksons, Northumbria University, RIBA, Newcastle Airport and Newcastle City Council’s Grainger Market.

Jen said: “I’m looking forward to working with Darren, Matt and our brilliant team as part of this next exciting chapter. 

“We have developed expertise to create brands and deliver strategic communications campaigns, not many agencies can offer that breadth of knowledge and experience. 

“In these times of change, we are increasingly sought out by businesses seeking clarity. 

“We provide that through strategic thinking, creative ideas, and clear communication, enabling organisations to navigate and thrive in the rapidly evolving business landscape.” 

Lucy added: “I’ve lived and breathed Gardiner Richardson for 27 years, and this is the right moment personally and professionally to retire from the role. 

“I’m proud of the business that myself and Darren first set up in 1998, and this is the right time for the business to start a new chapter with a managing director role. 

“I’ve worked closely with Jen for the last 3 years and I know she’s got the ideal mix of commercial and industry experience to take the business from strength to strength. 

“I’m looking forward to seeing the business take on this next chapter.” 

Darren Richardson, co-founder and creative director at Gardiner Richardson, added: “Through our 27-year history, we have continuously evolved and adapted to the changing landscape, developing our services and integrating new technology and theory into our practice. 

“We thrive on our curiosity to explore the new, while remaining true to our considered strategic thinking and depth of relationships. 

“The role of managing director in our business is a perfect evolution to set us up for future success. 

“Jen’s prior agency experience and commercial knowledge will allow us to drive the business forward, and I’m excited for the next chapter.”  

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