Why work with us
About Simon and team
Simon Coulter is a brand and marketing consultant with over 35 years experience. He believes in the ‘why’ and taking time to understand what makes brands so special and why customers fall in love with them. Simon believes in the power of branding; great design, stories and experiences to help a business thrive. He has worked with trusted, like minded creatives, people who are fuelled by purpose and genuine belief. People who ‘just get it’. Taking Five was set up because Simon believes there is a better, more personal and inclusive way to approach branding. An approach that can offer people and their businesses help to fully understand the power and importance a well thought-through and positioned brand can deliver.
Marks and Spencer
Simon has worked in many different creative roles throughout his career.
It started back in the 80s with Marks + Spencer, where his passion for retail and product development began.
With a thirst for learning, he gained experience until the mid 90s in product design and manufacturing working for companies such as Courtaulds, Sara Lee and with the likes of Debenhams, BHS, House of Fraser, Sock Shop and other High Street names.
Early Learning Centre
The mid 90s saw Simon move into a Buying role at The Early Learning Centre and within a number of years he was running the Buying Team with an annual budget of £200m. The role covered designing, developing, manufacturing and marketing products and building ranges.
After 8 years at ELC, there was a stint as Head of Own Brand Development at Toys R Us. An International Role that covered the EU, working directly with the USA.
Between 2004-2006 Simon helped run an innovative chocolate business that he co-founded along with with an ex-ELC colleague, Colin Graham.
Wildfire: Brand Agency
In 2006 the Brand and Design agency Wildfire was founded, which he owned and ran for over 12 years, working with clients that included Tesco, Disney, Universal Studios, Harbour Hotels, Gary Rhodes and Christopher Ward Watches.
More recently, Simon has been working with in collaboration with Nick Crosbie, a unique product designer who has brought the Inflate and AirClad brands and products to the market. Working with aspirational, global brands as well as successfully growing its network of franchisees and partners across the world.
TakingFive is the culmination of this experience and what really matters in developing a successful brand and business.
During Simon’s working life, he has become aware that time and experience are our greatest and most precious assets.
TakingFive helps you make the most of your time, by engaging with Simon’s and the team’s experience
Intelligence, creativity & experience only humans can provide.
Who work with you
A Collaborative Group of Talented Souls
Simon works with a collaborative group of talented experts that are familiar with working together as a team.
It means you get access to the best creative people, in design, copy and content strategy, that are individually matched to your specific brief and requirements.
The value of our external expertise is able too challenge you to go further. Steering you to places you wouldn’t reach alone.
Discover more of how we can work with you here.