Insights on Balancing Creative Freedom and Strategy with Simon Hewitt

Simon Hewitt is a co-founder of Orange Panther Collective, an advertising startup that combines big agency expertise with the flexibility of a smaller shop. With a career spanning major firms like M&C Saatchi, AMV, BBC Creative, Leo Burnett, and Engine, Simon brings a wealth of experience.

In this episode, Simon discusses the challenges he’s faced in transitioning from big firms to a boutique agency, emphasizing the importance of balancing creativity and strategy. Simon shares valuable insights on building authentic client relationships and crafting impactful, culturally relevant advertising.

Topics covered during this episode include:

• How Simon transitioned from major agencies to his startup.
• Why maintaining credibility and blending creative strategies is crucial for new ventures.
• How Simon's fascination with wooden designs led to his popular blog, “Good Wood Would.”
• Why OPC initially focused on startups before partnering with larger clients.
• How OPC aims to ignite growth for both emerging and established brands.
• Why balancing long-term strategic thinking with short-term creative output is important.
• How iconic campaigns like Cadbury's Gorilla advert highlight the value of longevity in advertising.
• Why current disposable, trend-driven work can undermine brand memorability.
• How the need for a unifying creative idea at a platform level is essential for consistent messaging.
• Why big ad agencies instill discipline, codification, and high-quality production in their work.
• How emotional investment and strategic framework drive impactful brand messaging.
• Why authenticity, honesty, and clarity are vital for agency differentiation and client relationships.
• How culturally relevant content must balance with long-term creative strategies.
• Why the "move fast and break things" mentality is critiqued in today's industry.
• Why Simon believes in the value of both industry rigor and creative freedom for brand success.

Simon Hewitt on LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/simonhewitt-orangepanthercollective