Jessica Tucker - Managing Director, Social Allies
What were your career ambitions growing up?
Growing up, I was drawn to the world of fashion. While I struggled academically with most subjects in school, my love for art and English was always strong. I discovered textiles in school, so I continued with the fashion and creative side. Many years later, I achieved my goal of working in the fashion industry.
Tell us about your current role.
My current role is Managing Director at Social Allies. I oversee our team’s efforts to help brands establish and strengthen their online presence. We specialise in crafting brand identities through a variety of creative avenues, including copywriting, visual design, videography, social media management, and general marketing assets. I’m fortunate to work with a talented and passionate team that supports and drives the growth of Social Allies.
What is your proudest business achievement?
Every day, I’m incredibly proud of the work we do at Social Allies. Driving the business forward and seeing our team’s efforts come to fruition is truly rewarding. However, one of my most significant achievements was the rebrand launch last September.
After a year of meticulous planning and execution, we successfully transformed the internal and external identity of Social Allies into something that authentically represents our values and goals.
How has your industry changed in the last decade?
The marketing landscape has evolved significantly over the past five years. When we first started Social Allies, we faced the challenge of convincing brands of the importance of social media as a marketing tool. Fortunately, this mindset has shifted, and businesses now recognise the necessity of having a strong online presence.
In recent years, there has been a growing demand for brands to showcase a more personal and authentic side.
This trend has led to a surge in businesses seeking our expertise to develop more humanised online identities.
What are you currently working on?
At the beginning of the year, we launched the Social Studio, a service offering a wide range of printed materials, including brochures, business cards, signatures, presentations, roller banners, and more. Since its launch, we’ve been thrilled to see a steady influx of projects through our creative studio. While our love remains with our social media clients, we also enjoy the variety of one-off projects.
Tell us about the team you work with.
The Social Allies team is the best. The team are dedicated, hardworking, and committed to growing the business. We have the balance of being serious while still having a laugh. Social Allies wouldn’t be what it is today without the exceptional contributions of our talented team.
What is the best piece of business advice you have been given?
One of the most valuable pieces of advice I’ve received is to focus on my own business rather than comparing myself to others. Additionally, I’ve learnt the importance of being selective about whom I trust, as people may have ulterior motives. Building a strong team of individuals who are dedicated to your success is crucial.
What has been your biggest challenge?
Two big challenges were the COVID-19 pandemic and the rising cost of living crisis, which forced us to quickly adapt our business strategies.
Who are your heroes inside and outside of business?
My mum and aunt have been my greatest inspirations. Aunt Sam is a prominent businesswoman in Teesside, having successfully grown multiple companies. Her guidance and support have been instrumental in helping me launch Social Allies. Her advice has always been to reach for the stars.
My mother, a single parent who faced significant challenges following her divorce, has demonstrated remarkable resilience and strength. She currently works as a cost engineer for a major Teesside company and is widely respected across the community as well as feared!
How do you unwind outside of work?
When I’m not working, I enjoy relaxing with my family. I go on a lot of walks and love spending time with my now four-year-old.
Favourite book and box set?
Game of Thrones – I am a HUGE fan!
One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel Garcia Marquez – hard but so informative.
socialallies.com