This week, we talk with our Director, Steve Lee, and find out a bit about him and why he does what he does.
How did you get into doing your job?
I studied Computer Animation at university, which always surprises a lot of people but I have always been interested in design and computers but knew I didn’t necessarily want to focus on either. So when I was looking for a creative course and this one came up it seemed like my opportunity to be able to design for Pixar.
Whilst at university this is where I had my first introduction to designing website interfaces and using animation techniques to enhance communication. For my first project, I had to produce a report on technological advances in personal computing. At the time I predicted the rise of converging technologies and the ability to carry your phone, camera, music system and media center around in your pocket – I still try to convince people down the pub that Apple stole my idea.
What did you do before working for The Wonder Agency?
I worked at a supermarket to put myself through uni, and continued to work there until I finally managed to land a freelance position at Home Agency in 2010. It was only three days a week and was for less money than the supermarket position but I saw the opportunity to make a career out of it – safe to say I’m glad I took the chance.
Starting at Home was a bit of a culture shock, but I had a great time meeting new people, learning loads and enjoying the perks of agency life. I ended up working at Home Agency for nine years and from joining at a junior level, I worked my way up to become Head of Data. During this time I worked as a PR exec, SEO and media analyst and then in my last role set-up the Data Analytics team. For the last three years in this role I created a number of analytics products and services to advance the technology at Home and, I’m proud to say, built a really talented team.
What do you do for The Wonder Agency?
I’m a Director at the Wonder Agency, alongside Amy. After setting up in late 2019, I’m ecstatic to be still working with some amazing businesses and talented people. As well as getting stuck in and doing my fair share, I’ve tried to challenge myself to continue growing my knowledge and understanding of running a business.
Day-to-day I work on delivering data analytics and digital marketing for our clients. I love working alongside clients and learning about their business. In the beginning, I worked with Jet2.com to help out on their Web Analytics team to deliver a project. I had the opportunity to work at the office alongside some great people. Now, I’m working to deliver e-commerce websites and planning global projects.
What are the most challenging and rewarding parts of your role?
Previously working at a larger agency, I was a specialist. Stereotypically as a data analyst, I didn’t hold a lot direct relationships with clients. I thought I’d find this the most challenging part of setting up but after throwing myself into it, I’ve found it incredibly rewarding. Listening to our clients needs and delivering solutions that make a difference to their business makes what we do fulfilling.
We’ve worked with Phoenox Textiles from the beginning and this has helped me to understand how to effectively apply my experience to our clients goals. I’m happy to have improved the ROI for their brand Hug At Home but, even more so, we’ve helped them employ 20+ people at Phoenox to fulfill the extra work. I hope that the work we do at Wonder will keep having a positive impact on businesses like this.
We’ve built up some great client relationships and being able to see the work we do make a real difference to the companies we work with has definitely been the most rewarding, especially during a time that has been really difficult for a lot of companies.
What advice would you give someone starting out?
I’d say, be a knowledge sponge and learn as much as possible. First become an expert in what you do then start to broaden your knowledge. The more context you have, the more valuable your opinion will be.
If you’re looking to kick-off a digital project then get in touch with Steve and Amy at hello@wonderagency.co.uk
