The Team
Our team consists of hand-picked experts from a range of integrated disciplines. From online marketing through to creative services and technical development, our team excel in turning client discussions into exciting projects. With such a diverse spread of talent it seems a shame not to give you a bit of background of those who make it all happen at Magic Online Solutions and our sister company The Works.
As MD and shareholder, Mark oversees the business. With a background in both creative and client services, his experience helps clients understand how the web can really help their brands develop. His CV includes print, online, B2B, B2C, search engine marketing and running a successful online design agency. He also acts as project manager for many Magic clients, ensuring timescales, quality and production are all met. Away from the internet and clients, he enjoys vintage vehicles and period property restoration.
James has been developing advanced web applications since 1999 where he began his career in (the) HM Treasury. Since then James has had lead developer roles at several successful Norwich companies/agencies before appearing at Magic. James' varied experience has given him a wide range of knowledge across all areas of web development including accessibility, interface development (CSS, DHTML, javascript, Flash, AJAX), database systems (MySQL, MS SQL Server, Oracle, DB2) and backend development (Java, PHP, ASP, ASP.NET and Ruby). James also has a working knowledge of project management methodologies such as PRINCE2 from his time working in the Treasury.
After graduating with a BA (Hons) in Graphic Design & Multimedia 7 years ago, Darryl has been involved in the web industry. Prior to joining Magic, Darryl gained experience as a designer with a number of digital agencies. Darryl brings an uncanny sense of humor, a wide ranging knowledge of 80's pop culture and an exquisite eye for detail to his designs, always seeking new challenges and experiences, consistently pushing his creativity. His rich detailed designs, intelligent compositions and precise typography show in his work. Aside from pushing pixels, Darryl enjoys nothing else then playing with cars & trucks with his 1 year old Son.
As a founding member of the Magic team, Martin oversees technical development. He studied Visual Communications at the Surrey Institute of Art and Design before mastering website design and development. Specialising in E-commerce and database development, Martin creates and project manages CMS systems for key clients as well as bringing his own unique sense of order to our busy design and development studio. When not staring at a screen, Martin enjoys playing guitar and Xbox, although not at the same time.
With over 10 years experience in the internet industry (working previously at Anglia Television), Phil has worked for the Works as Production Manager and Web Designer for 7 years before Magic was initially formed. As an original member of Magic, Phil has created online marketing solutions for a range of local, national and international clients such as The University of East Anglia, The Goymour Group and Hendrix Genetics. Phil has a BA (Hons) Degree in Visual Studies, specialising in online technologies and website design. Oh, he likes DIY too!
After graduating with a BSc (Hons) in Business Information Systems, Chris joined The-Works Advertising as a web designer before Magic was initially formed. As an original team member of Magic, Chris specialises in advanced CSS and XHTML, accessibility and supporting search engine optimisation. When not at work, Chris is a serious photographer and is working on his own web and photographic projects. When not behind a screen or camera, Chris enjoys scuba diving and is a keen foil fencer.
Mark has worked in a wide range of search marketing areas for the past 4 years. A Google Adwords Professional, Mark has worked on both small and large PPC campaigns and SEO projects. He started as a web designer while also working on online community projects. This naturally progressed into search engine optimisation and pay per click campaign management. At home he enjoys using the Internet even more for other site projects and gaming.
The Works
Russell has been a director and shareholder in The Works since it was founded and Managing Director for the last 9 years. An experienced marketeer with client experience working for Grand Metropolitan in a variety of sales and marketing roles including Brand Manager on Budweiser, Fosters, Carlsberg and Kaliber. His main role is as Planning Director for The Works' clients. Russell and Mark spearheaded the launch of Magic back in 2006.
CIM qualified, Helen has a wealth of consumer experience and acts as Client Services Director for regional clients Chapelfield, Bennetts, Aldiss, Banham Zoo, Africa Alive! and Dinosaur Adventure. Helen has worked recently on the launch of The Big-3 (CRM programme for all three Goymour Group attractions). National client experience also includes Hoseasons and Spotless UK. A real campaigner for online/offline integration, she helps clients see the benefits of joined up thinking!
Previously Production Manager for The Point marketing communications agency, Louise joined The Works a year ago to head up the Production department within client services. With 9 years experience in trafficking and print, Louise works closely with the account handlers, Magic, creative and studio departments to plan, progress and problem solve work across a large range of b2b and b2c clients. Louise has previously worked on clients such as City College Norwich, Anglian Home Improvements and Josef Seibel Shoes.
Fiona has 9 years' experience working in agencies in Essex and Norfolk, and has worked on a diverse range of accounts within several sectors, including electronics (Advance International Group), animal health (Bayer Animal Health and Merial), leisure/tourism (Banham Zoo, Great Yarmouth Tourist Authority) manufacture (Duracell) and finance (Company Barclaycard). She helps Magic projects run smoothly.
A hugely experienced Art Director and Creative Director, both above and below-the-line, Kim has worked in agencies that include, amongst others, BMP DDB, O&M, WCRS, Y&R, Saatchi’s, Proximity and also, across a wide range of clients. He is now a board director and shareholder. He is passionate about what he does, and explains, "I've always loved ads, ever since I was a kid, when I would sing jingles, hum the soundtracks from ads and even test my mates on famous straplines. I still do it today. A bit sad I know, but now my kids do the same!"
A key member in the Magic team as Account Director, Tony has 4 years London agency experience with Y&R and B&B and 20 years as Managing Director of Williams & Harmer. His 10 years as Account Director of The Works means he looks after Van Dal shoes, Dipples Jewellers, Town & Country Conservatories as well as several clients in Holland.
Previously Business Development Co-ordinator for Fired Earth Interiors. Two years as Brand Marketing Executive for Adnams Brewery including their hotel and retail marketing. Tara joined The Works in 2005 and works closely with Helen on Banham Zoo, Africa Alive!, Dinosaur Adventure and The Big-3. Tara has a wealth of experience planning campaigns for attractions and large independent retailers and helps keeps Magic projects running smoothly.
