Our Let’s Chat series shines the spotlight on our all-important stakeholders who form a vital part of Engine Shed. We sat down with Ian Bates, Founder and Creative Partner of Firehaus, to find out why he feels like an ambassador for the West and how he’s making universities exciting.
What do you do and what is your background?
Howard Gossage, a criminally underappreciated advertising legend from the 60s whose incredible work has thankfully reached a wider audience in recent years, once said, “Changing the world is the only fit work for a grown man.” That idea stayed with me, and while it took time to fully embrace it, it ultimately became my driving force behind the launch of Firehaus when my partner Nick reminded me of it.
With a lengthy career in creative work – much of it spent building brands and selling products at the intersection of creativity, data, and technology – I’ve had the privilege of working with extraordinary people on blue-chip global brands, in remarkable agencies. Yet Gossage’s words, and approach, continually reminded me that there was more to be done.
Now, through Firehaus, I’m building brands that aim to make a meaningful, positive impact on the world – today and for the future.
What is Firehaus’s elevator pitch?
We’re the brand studio for universities, researchers and spin-outs.
Universities should be among the most exciting brands in the world (see my blog on the topic). Their work in educating, nurturing and inspiring future talent, their research driving real impact, and their role as catalysts for new businesses and industries make them more compelling than many of the best-known brands. Yet, few outside familiar circles truly understand this.
We’re here to change that. Our mission is to help these institutions realize their full potential and become the global brands they’re meant to be.
Why have you chosen Bristol to be your base?
I was born and bred in the West and I’m fiercely proud of the region. Bristol has been the heart of my working world. I helped grow a regional agency from here into London and Edinburgh, worked in Germany and Dubai with another, and served on committees for national marketing organisations. But I’ve always felt like an ambassador for the West. Insiders know that Bristol has a healthy maverick tendency with diverse creative and cultural life so honestly, why would you go somewhere else?
How would you describe coworking at Engine Shed?
Engine Shed has been very important for us. The location is great for our team, clients and events – and there are always interesting people hanging out here to engage in random conversations with that end up being inspirational. But more importantly, there is a sense of community fostered here. The in-house team are great, and our coworkers have become pals and provide us with great sounding boards as we grow.
In your experience, what is the most common misconception companies have about brands?
It’s just a logo.
Do you have any exciting things coming up that you’re ready to share?
Yes. And no.
We do.
Keep your eyes peeled.
Some extraordinary clients doing amazing things.
We can’t wait for those stories to come out.
If you’ve enjoyed this Let’s Chat, take a look at the other interviews in our Let’s Chat series
Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news from Engine Shed.