On The Couch...with Ben Richards

Welcome to 'On The Couch' - where we get to take a deep dive, (or shallow paddle) into the creative minds and lives of those working at id. We will be continuing this regular series with Ben Richards - Midweight Designer.

Ben! Tell us about yourself in no more than 10 words. Creative mind. Massive Chelsea fan. Tea addict and beer enthusiast.

Okay great - so Midweight Designer eh? How did one end up there? After graduating with a degree in Graphic Design, I spent a few years bouncing around from job to job. It took me a while to find the right career path….and there were some tough years for sure. But in 2015 I found my way back into the design industry and I haven’t looked back…it was the best decision I ever made! After spending 4 years in the Marketing Design team at a gaming company called Gamesys, I started my own business selling personalised artwork in 2020, before joining the wonderfully talented ID team here at Freuds in 2021.

Interesting! What does an ‘average’ day look like for you? Dog duty is normally first on the list, which involves lots of running around in the local park getting muddy! Once I am at my desk my day tends to vary quite a bit, which I love. In my role I am given a real range of projects to work across. No day is the same and that’s the way I like it. Once I have finished for the day you can find me either in the gym….or cosying up to my beer machine in the home bar at the bottom of the garden…..to be honest its more likely to be the latter.

What is your biggest design career moment so far?

I already have lots. I have been very lucky to work with so many big brands and companies over the years. However I would have to say that starting my own business and opening the Esty shop during the first lockdown was a proud moment for me personally. It kept my creative juices flowing during a tough time……and I got nothing but positive reviews from my customers. The personalised pet pictures were by far my biggest seller…and I am pleased to say that I am still taking orders in 2022!

What makes Ben, Ben?

My friends and family without a doubt.

And finally, If you could see a measuring scale above people’s heads, what would you want this scale to measure?

Kindness. The world needs a lot more of it!