Layers Studio, the UX-led design and development agency based in Gateshead, has promoted Jonny Tabiner to Head of Design, completing a journey that began when he joined the agency as a placement student.
Jonny, who studied Design for Industry at Northumbria University, approached Layers after his original placement fell through at the last moment. Quiet at first, he quickly came out of his shell and became an integral part of the team within weeks.
When his placement ended and he returned to university, Layers kept him on as a freelancer so he could continue working with the team while he finished his degree. He graduated in 2020, at the height of the pandemic, and joined Layers full time.
This week, Jonny stepped into the role of Head of Design.
James Hanson, Managing Director at Layers Studio, said: “Jonny has been a joy to work with. He’s always open to learning, he’s an incredibly talented designer, and he’s a brilliant mentor to every design placement who comes through the studio. His story is a great example of the talent we have right here in the North East, and of our commitment to keeping it here.”
Jonny Tabiner, Head of Design at Layers Studio, said: “I couldn’t be happier to be stepping into my new role as Head of Design. Looking back, my original placement falling through was a real blessing in disguise. I’ve loved every second at Layers. The studio environment that James and Paula have created has given me the time, space, and resources to grow not just as a designer, but as a person. I’m so grateful to the amazing team, past and present, who have supported me along the way, and I can’t wait to dive headfirst into this next chapter.”
Layers Studio is a strong advocate for nurturing and retaining talent in the North East, and Jonny’s story shows what that looks like in practice: giving young people a chance, supporting them through their studies and building a career for them in the region.
www.layers.studio