Say hello to Ross…

Tell us a bit about yourself – Where did you grow up and where did you go to Uni:

I grew up in East Hertfordshire about 40 mins North of London. Design has always been a passion of mine and it was always something I knew I wanted to pursue, probably from the age of 13.

For some people it is quite difficult at a young age to decide where they want to go, what subjects to continue with and which to drop.

As soon as I set foot in the graphics DT room at school it just felt right. I knew that was where I wanted to be. The space was comfortable and I became fascinated in creating things, turning ideas inside my head into physical objects.

I went to Ravensbourne University, London to study Product Design. An industry-focused university specialising in Design & Digital Media. The course provided me with real world professional experience which has been key. It was also great to be learning in a space surrounded by a range of different design disciplines.

Why Papa Bravo?

This is quite easy really, it has to be the versatility and nature of some of the projects.

After researching the company a little and speaking with the team about previous projects I got a really good feel for the company’s position and approach to its work. I was really impressed with the sheer versatility and the nature of some of the project work.

I can certainly confirm that the work is incredibly varied and each project is very different to the next. The skills and tools required for each one can differ depending on the nature of the work. I am always pushing myself, I never quite know what’s coming round the corner. I am excited by the prospect of exploring different industry sectors and the work keeps me on my toes!

How was the interview process/any insights for the next superstar?

The interview process was fairly relaxed and pretty straight forward.

I was given the opportunity to talk openly about my experience and the work I have produced in the past. I demonstrated some previous work examples sharing some of the challenging aspects of each of the projects and the strategies adopted to tackle them.

I also discussed my journey as a Senior Product Designer so far and I could elaborate on the steps I have taken in my design career to date. I think it’s important to realise that aside from applications, CV’s and cover letters once you are sitting in front of the interviewer it’s simply a discussion. As long as you can demonstrate the work you have produced in the past and run through your experience, try not to lose the human element during the process. This shouldn’t be overlooked and it is something which can be tricky over a teams meeting. Remember, you are the greatest advertising campaign to talk about your work, be proud of it!

Speak openly about the work you’ve done, there is no harm in talking about things you are not so strong at but always show a willingness and eagerness to learn!

What are your aspirations for yourself at Papa Bravo?

Hmmm, a courtesy car would be nice. Maybe something like an e-class Mercedes!

I joke, to be honest I am always pushing myself and I have been crafting my design process for a while now. I have developed a way of working which suits me and allows me to combat a range of project challenges in the most efficient way possible.

I feel that Papa Bravo are really helping me to unlock my potential as a Senior Product Designer. They are giving me the creative freedom and the realms to explore different design ideas and options within each project. They trust my judgement and the team is very transparent, there are no bad ideas here, this is key.

It would be nice to share some of these learnings and things I’ve picked up over the years with some of the guys coming through. There’s certainly a few tips and tricks I’ve picked up and it’d be great to share these.

The idea of leading a design team sounds good, maybe one day! Who Knows!

Any favourite designers out there?

Aside from Dieter Rams, Jonny Ive and Phillipe Starck I have to mention Raymond Loewy. I am a little obsessed with the streamlining movement to be honest.

He was one of the first to bring style into people’s homes. His contribution to design not only had an impact visually but influenced the way things were being produced at the time. From high- speed locomotives, cars and tractors to pencil sharpeners, radios and kitchen appliances, what’s not to love!