Rob Brown - Founder and Managing Director, JUMP.
What were your key achievements this year?
Moving into our new studio at Carliol Square was a major milestone, marking a new chapter for JUMP. We’ve improved how we present ourselves to clients, strengthened delivery processes, and built consistency across our work. We also tightened our focus on the kind of projects and relationships that suit us best.
This year’s progress feels especially meaningful given some personal challenges, including my mum’s passing and time off for surgery. Keeping the business steady through that period reminded me how strong and dependable the team is.
Has everything gone according to plan?
Not entirely, but that’s business. A few projects took longer than expected, yet every challenge pushed us to be sharper. The new studio has given the team fresh energy, and we’ll finish the year in a stronger position, more focused, more aligned, and ready for what’s next.
What are you most proud of this year?
The team. They’ve adapted, supported each other, and delivered great work through a lot of change. I’m proud of the relationships we’ve built with clients who value partnership and trust how we work.
Outside JUMP, continuing my trustee work with Blyth Tall Ship and Age UK North Tyneside has meant a lot. Both charities do brilliant work, and it’s rewarding to help shape their direction and make a tangible difference in the community. Experiencing how they operate has made me appreciate resources and cashflow even more. Every decision counts when margins are tight.
Did your customer base grow as expected?
Yes, and the relationships have grown stronger. We’re working with clients who share our values and stay with us for the long term. That kind of growth lasts.
Tell us about your team.
We’re around twenty people covering brand, design, digital, and marketing. It’s a mix of long-standing experience and fresh thinking, which keeps ideas moving. Everyone has direct contact with clients, so communication stays clear and relationships stay real. The team takes real pride in delivery and quality, and that shows in the feedback we get.
What stands out most is how they support each other. There’s no ego, just shared commitment and care for the work. It’s a team I trust completely.
What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve received this year?
Say no faster. Time is limited and not every opportunity deserves a yes.
What’s been the most enjoyable business event you’ve attended this year?
I haven’t made it to many this year, which is something I plan to change. The right events are valuable for connection and brand visibility, and I know we need to make more time for them. Being named a finalist for Business of the Year for the North East and Humber in the Great British Entrepreneur Awards is a real highlight, and we’ll be travelling to London in November for the event. It’s great recognition for the whole team.
Internally, our own staff events, like community lunches, are something I really value. They give us time to step out of work mode, share ideas, and enjoy being together as a team.
What have you learnt about yourself this year?
I’ve learnt how important visibility is. I enjoy being in the studio and part of the everyday flow. It keeps me connected to the team and reminds me why I started JUMP in the first place.
Describe 2025 in three words.
Challenging. Settled. Positive.
What are your top three priorities for 2026?
Keep building strong, lasting client relationships.
Grow the business steadily and profitably.
Invest in the team’s development and keep our culture strong as we grow.
Any New Year’s resolutions?
I’m not big on New Year’s resolutions, but I do want to make more space to step back and reset. Taking proper time off is something I’ve always found difficult, and I know how much clearer I think when I do. Professionally, the focus stays the same, quality over volume, and making time for the right kind of work and connections.
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