New management at Leeds's Harris Creative following management buyout

Construction marketing agency Harris Creative is under new management after a successful MBO from two directors.

Neil Craven and Kirsty Scott have taken control of the firm in a move which will see long-standing former managing director and founder Jim Harris to exit the company, which he originally founded as an architectural photography practice back in 1986.

Mr Craven, formerly design director, and Ms Scott, who joined the company as PR director in 2017, will each hold the position of joint managing director, whilst PR account director Faye Harris-Frost will take on the role of head of PR, and digital developer Matt Bornshin becomes head of digital, joining head of social media Karla López Crowley in a newly-created leadership team.

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The MBO comes after Harris enjoyed a successful 2020, having secured nine new clients, including CMOStores.com, Axis Envelope Solutions, and CLD Fencing, despite the pressures of the pandemic.

Neil Craven and Kirsty ScottNeil Craven and Kirsty Scott
Neil Craven and Kirsty Scott

Ms Scott said: “When we first began discussing the possibility of an MBO, I was certain from the off that it was the right decision for everyone. I’m very proud to be leading this exceptionally talented team, and I’m sure that Neil and I will take the company to new heights in the next five years and beyond.”

Mr Craven added: “The deal to set the MBO in motion was struck in March 2020, but with the UK then plunged immediately into the covid-19 pandemic and lockdown, our focus shifted to managing crisis communications for all our clients, working to retain clients across all departments, and then proactively seeking new business to ensure the future growth of the company.

"I’m very proud to say that we achieved all of these goals, and we’re confident and excited about the future.”

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