JASON KNIGHTS Managing Director of Blue Kangaroo Design based in Gateshead. They are a design agency that works specifically with entertainment character licensing and toy industry clients all over the world. He is also a Northern Powerhouse Export Champion. Here we find out more about his business and career.
Did you always envisage a career in the Media industry?
No not at all, it’s something that I stumbled into really. I’ve worked in a few different and diverse roles but really enjoyed the print industry which then led me into the creative sector.
What has been your career path so far?
I left school with no qualifications and joined the Army, when I came out, I did everything from washing dishes, fitting curtains, working as a security guard right the way through to owning a creative agency. Each job has taught me important skills and lessons that have led me to where I am today.
What have been the biggest challenges you have faced so far?
The biggest challenge that I have had to deal with is myself. I lack confidence due to not having any formal education which in turn can lead to Imposter Syndrome. It’s been known for me to be in a meeting and expect to be thrown out, which I know sounds bizarre when you consider how successful the business is but you can’t always control how you feel.
Who do you most respect in your industry?
From the minute I set up Blue Kangaroo Design I have been mentored by Keith Whisson from a company called Shiremoor Press. He has always been there through the good times and bad times to offer advice and support. Andrew Moultrie who is the CEO of BBC Studioworks has also been a huge inspiration throughout my career within the licensing industry. He has been a great advocate and has always made himself available if I needed a chat or get some advice from him.
How did you adapt your business during the coronavirus crisis and support clients?
We were fortunate that we have always worked remotely so having to adapt hasn’t really been a major issue. We did loose creation types of work like exhibition design and build as well as event work. The team here at Blue Kangaroo are amazing and they are the most creative people that I have ever worked with, so when new opportunities have come along, they have adapted very quickly.
What is your greatest strength?
I like to think that I am a real people person and know how to get the best out of my team. I’m a great believer in the adage that you should treat people the way that you would like to be treated yourself.
What is your biggest weakness?
I’m not afraid of hard work and sometimes I find it difficult to switch off and say “no.”
What has been your proudest achievement?
In 2019 I was invited to The Queen’s Garden Party along with my wife Melanie to celebrate the work I have done with the Department for International Trade in exporting. To have her with me made me feel so proud as she has supported me from day one so to share the day with her was very special.
What are your remaining career aspirations?
I’m passionate about helping promote the digital and creative services industry in the North East. Those that know me will say that I am continually bragging about how creative we are ‘up north’ as well as recommending other businesses to our clients who are based all over the world.
How do you see your industry evolving in the next 10 years?
The creative industries must constantly evolve every day to keep up with the changing landscape. I see technology making huge changes but ultimately you still need a creative mind to come up with the ideas. Retail is an ever-changing area so that’s the part that I see being the most challenging and exciting area of change.
