Web designer — Andy Bishop

Now the managing director of his own company, Andy began in magazine publishing before moving into the world of web design and development

What degree did you study and where?

BA (Hons) Typography and Graphic Communication at the University of Reading.

Why did you decide on a career in web design?

I was always quite good at art but was encouraged at school to do more 'academic' subjects. When it came to choosing a degree, I decided to look into media and design.

After graduating I was offered a job at a publishing company in Oxfordshire and accepted. I started off designing careers magazines. I was then made aware of a position at a technology company in Berkshire, heading up the ecommerce website for their operations across Europe. I applied and got the job, which was a significant step up in responsibility and forced me to learn quickly.

After four years working with the web team I travelled to Australia with my partner and worked for design and website agencies in Perth and Sydney.

While in Australia, a friend was looking to start a company producing websites and wondered if I could help.

On returning to the UK, we formalised the business and Redder was born. Over the years, we have worked with all sizes and types of businesses doing graphic design for print and digital, marketing and development.

What kind of tasks do you complete on a typical day?

I still keep a hand in production work, but I also have to manage client relationships, look after task management, team communication and some server administration. I also do some of the finances and invoicing.

What do you enjoy about web design?

Design is the most fun, but I also enjoy problem solving and feeling that I have achieved something or made progress each day.

What are the challenges?

Managing expectations and keeping control of costs.

What three qualities are important for a career in this field?

• Perseverance and problem solving.
• Creativity.
• Communication is key to be able to express ideas and negotiate a standpoint.

Can you debunk a myth about working in web design?

That it's just 'arty' - there is a lot about design and development that is about thinking your way through how your work will be used and the content consumed - user experience design is a big part of how we think.

What are your career ambitions?

I am looking to build the company to the point where I can hand it over to a new manager to adapt to the new world, including AI, quantum computing and wearable tech.

What advice can you give to others aspiring to work in this field?

Keep learning and adapting. My job in web technology didn't exist when I was at school and it's changed a lot while I have been doing it. To be successful both as an individual and an organisation you have to constantly learn and adapt to the changing world. Some people fear change, but it's something that I find exciting and challenging.

Find out more

• Learn more about the role of a web designer.
• Explore what you can do with a web design and development degree.
• Discover creative jobs.