Hi, I’m Andy
I’m an innovative and creative problem-solver able to see the big picture, orchestrate the detail, and grasp the linkages between the two. I have a track record of identifying value-add opportunities, applying user-centred thinking to find ways of tapping in to them, and executing to the highest standards.
Experience
2022-2023
Winemaking / vineyard operative,
2022-2023: Winemaking / vineyard operative
I pursued a passion for making and for wine, gaining experience of viticulture and winemaking at two stand-out wineries and a specialist producer of sparkling wines.
2021-2022
Strategic foresight manager, UK Government
2021-2022: Strategic foresight manager, UK Government
I led development of a digital product suite communicating socio-technical trends and their strategic implications, underpinned by robust technical, economic, and social analysis. I conducted user research to inform the solution, and developed the user experience both at high level and through detailed interface design. I led the team in an iterative approach, delivering and refining outputs in a series of design sprints. My team’s outputs achieved early impact and were recognised as best-in-class.
2020-2022
Craftsperson, studioASB
2020-2022: Craftsperson
I attained critical and commercial success developing, producing, and selling several ranges of design-led craft wares.
2018-2021
Senior strategic foresight consultant, UK Government
2018-2021: Senior strategic foresight consultant, UK Government
I grew the brand of a new foresight team, driving a design-led approach and building expertise on AI, spatial computing, and space. I applied product management and design thinking approaches to identify and address unmet needs, and was recognised by customers for innovative outputs, top-quality analysis, and clear communication of complexity. I also contributed to a major policy review, developing concepts and evidence on strategic advantage through technology.
2018-2019
Design thinking consultant, Freelance
2018-2019: Design thinking consultant, Freelance
I facilitated co-creation of solutions to current problems faced by major corporate and third sector organisations, harnessing internal knowledge to secure efficiencies and growth.
Previous
I spent some time working on hardware development at a start-up, and held a series of roles working for the UK Government leading projects, promoting innovation, providing advice to ministers and senior officials, and analysing strategic issues. Highlights included running an internal innovation initiative in a government agency; commissioning a programme of research on cutting-edge wearable technologies; shaping the UK contribution to EU foreign and security policy activity; and leading a team for a technically-challenging £20M programme designing and producing a suite of electronic equipment for UK bomb disposal teams.
Education
2016-2018
MSc MA Innovation Design Engineering
2016-2018: MSc MA Innovation Design Engineering
I studied on the joint Imperial College London / Royal College of Art Innovation Design Engineering double masters, a project-based creative product development course involving experimentation, design, engineering and enterprise activities. My graduation project was a unique system bringing the concept of circularity to amateur-scale metal-craft.
2005-2009
MEng MA(Cantab) Engineering
2005-2009: MEng MA(Cantab) Engineering
I read Engineering at Pembroke College, Cambridge, achieving a double first and a distinction at Masters. I studied a broad range of topics, including design theory, bio-mechanics, and biomimetics. For my Masters I developed a novel approach to a challenging control theory problem. I studied French at the Engineering Department Language Unit and took part in an exchange with the Ecole Centrale de Paris.
Skills
Strategic thinking
I have skills in strategic analysis, strategy development, and implementation. My academic background has provided me a range of analytical and problem-solving tools that are directly relevant to strategy.
Design
I have a broad set of end-to-end design skills, from identifying opportunities and conducting research, through developing and evolving concepts, to hands-on prototyping and execution: digital design using Adobe’s creative suite, Figma, or InVision, and physical design using CAD and additive manufacturing. In both physical and digital design, I favour an iterative process of designing by making, tailoring fidelity to the design hypothesis being tested.
Communications
I am a practised presenter, and am valued by colleagues as a clear and engaging writer. My design skills help me shape approaches and refine messaging, focussing on the needs and context of the audience.
Engineering
I gained engineering chartership with the UK Institute of Engineering and Technology in August 2015. I am a generalist with a good level of knowledge and understanding across a number of areas: this provides the foundation for rapid understanding of the technological elements of problems and solutions, even in unfamiliar domains.
Making
I enjoy the process and craft of making, using a wide range of materials and techniques. My making skills complement my design skills by helping me prototype ideas rapidly, supporting a process of designing by making. These skils have also supported me in developing a small business producing and selling design-led items including jewellery and home fragrances at a curated high-end London market.
Project management
I have skills both at a high level, from experience leading programmes, and at a more detailed level, working on specific aspects such as risk management, as well as professional qualifications. I have particular experience with financial modelling and assurance of technically complex projects.
Volunteering
From 2019 to 2022 I volunteered as a design engineer with Remap UK, a charity supporting disabled people with needs unmet by commercially-available products. I work with disabled clients and occupational therapists to understand their specific need and design and build custom equipment to address it.