Lisa Kirkbride - Owner, Lisa Kirkbride Design and Illustration
Did you always envisage a career in the Marketing and Media Industry?
I’ve always been creative and spent much of my childhood drawing and making things, but I didn’t know what a creative career looked like. Once I discovered graphic design and illustration, I realised I could combine creativity with problem-solving and help businesses communicate their ideas more effectively.
What has been your career path so far?
I started my career in design and marketing agencies across the North East, where I spent seven years developing my skills and understanding the commercial side of creativity. In 2002, I founded Lisa Kirkbride Designs and have been running my own business ever since. Over the years I’ve worked with organisations of all sizes, creating brands, marketing campaigns, illustrations and licensed surface pattern designs. My artwork has been licensed internationally and I’ve exhibited at trade shows in New York and San Francisco. It’s been a varied and rewarding journey that’s constantly evolving.
What have been the biggest challenges you have faced so far?
Like any small business owner, I wear many hats, balancing creativity with the realities of running a business. More recently, adapting to rapid technological change and the rise of AI has required continual learning, but I see that as an opportunity. I enjoy finding new ways to improve how I work, streamline repetitive admin tasks and create more time for the creative side of the business that I love.
Who do you respect most in your industry?
I’ve always admired creatives who stay true to their own style rather than chasing trends. The people I respect most are those who continue to innovate, support others and build successful businesses without losing their authenticity.
Which fictional media character can you most relate to?
I’d probably say Edna Mode from The Incredibles.
Like Edna, I’m passionate about good design, pay close attention to detail and believe creativity should always have a purpose. I believe great design should be both beautiful and functional, helping people and brands present the best version of themselves.
I’d like to think I share her creative energy, determination and eye for detail. We also have a similar taste in eyewear!
What is your greatest strength?
My ability to see both the creative and commercial sides of a project. I love creating beautiful work, but I also understand it needs to connect with the right audience and achieve a purpose. Finding that balance is something I really enjoy.
What is your biggest weakness?
Saying no! I’m naturally enthusiastic and love helping people bring ideas to life, which can occasionally lead to a very full diary. Over time, I’ve become much better at setting boundaries, prioritising my workload and recognising that not every opportunity needs to be pursued. Sometimes saying no to one thing means being able to say yes to the right thing.
What has been your proudest achievement?
One of my proudest achievements was creating a series of prints during lockdown that helped raise more than £10,000 for Northumbria NHS Bright Charity. My Newcastle design was selected for inclusion in a time capsule at Newcastle Cathedral which is pretty cool! Knowing my work made a positive contribution during a difficult time was incredibly rewarding.
What are your future career aspirations?
My biggest aspiration is to stay curious and open to new opportunities. I’d like to continue growing my licensing portfolio, collaborating with inspiring clients and seeing where creativity takes me next. If I can keep doing work I love, making people smile and helping businesses succeed, I’ll consider that a success.
What is the best piece of business advice you have been given?
“Don’t try to be everything to everyone.” The more I’ve focused on the work I genuinely enjoy and where I add the most value, the stronger my business has become. Understanding what makes you different is far more powerful than trying to please everyone.
How do you see your industry evolving in the next 10 years?
Technology and AI will undoubtedly change how we work, but I don’t think they’ll replace the value of original ideas. As creative tools become more accessible, I think businesses will place even greater value on personality, authenticity and distinctive brands. People still connect with people, and that’s unlikely to change.
How do you like to unwind?
Living on the North East coast, I love spending time by the sea. Being outdoors helps me switch off, recharge and often sparks new ideas. I try to walk around six miles a day, which is probably where some of my best thinking happens. I love to read and I have a slightly unhealthy obsession with stationery, art supplies and reference books. Thankfully, in my line of work, I can usually justify adding to the collection!
www.lisakirkbride.com