The Chalk &
Ward family.

Trained whilst working at top London agencies and with over 30 years in the industry, Robert has a wealth of strategic knowledge across B2B and B2C markets.

A big picture thinker, his strong ability to seek out commercial opportunities for clients, mixed with his wide strategic thinking across all areas, is highly valued by clients. He challenges thinking and says it straight – if he doesn’t think it will work, he’d prefer to tell the client not to do it rather than take the money.

Robert knows it’s important to be brave with marketing – being good simply isn’t good enough. This genuine, honest and trustworthy approach has become the linchpin of the agency’s ethos – something we’re all very proud of.

Q. What is the best thing about being at Chalk & Ward?

Every day is genuinely interesting. I love working with different client businesses and sectors, understanding their needs, market dynamics and helping them grow. It’s such a kick to see what we do directly affect their success. I also get so much personal satisfaction from seeing staff develop and grow both personally and professionally. I’ve seen so much of it over the years and it never ceases to give me a warm sense of pride, that I might have had a small part to play in their personal growth.

Q. What do you like to get up to outside the agency?

I’m pretty active cycling 40 to 80 miles a week and playing racketball 3 or 4 times as well, so I like to maintain my fitness. The rest of the time is spent with my lovely wife, tasting nice wines, chilling and walking our dog. Back in 2013 I put my marketing skills to my own use for once! My wife and I (with help from the Agency, of course) set up an online retail business called and selling ‘Rare & Antique Books’. Not only is it doing quite well but I also get to hold many beautiful, very old and highly valuable pieces of history.

Alister has been with Chalk + Ward since 1999 and has over 20 years’ experience working with some of the South West’s leading national and international brands, including P&O Cruises, WKD, Wiltshire Farm Foods, Mole Valley Farmers, Co-op, Age UK, Enterprise Inns, Michael Caines, Hunter Stoves, and DS Smith.

A strategic creative, who is both commercially perceptive and a conceptual thinker, Alister recognises the value that strong creative is imperative to a brands success. An offline and online creative branding specialist, Alister leads the creative team across all of the agency’s clients.

Alister joined the board of Directors in 2018 and has nurtured a collaborative approach between teams, ensuring every creative project delivers dynamism and is the absolute best it can possibly be.

In June 2024, Alister took over the helm as Managing Director.

Q. What’s the best thing about being at Chalk & Ward?

After nearly 25 years working for Chalk & Ward, I believe the best thing are our people. Yes, people move on and new people join, but over the years we have paid close attention to ensure we employ good people, genuine people who want the best for our clients and most of all, enjoy what they do. This pays dividends to our clients, because they benefit from the high standards we set.

Q. What do you like to get up to outside the agency?

I am married with two girls, so I have become the taxi driver every parent promises themselves they won’t be. When I escape I usually grab my bike and head out for a ride round the backroads of Devon or I can be found watching football, rugby, cycling, F1 or any other sport I can find on the TV! I’m also a massive music lover, so I’m always up for a live gig and a beer!

Gemma has over 20 years’ experience in brand strategy and growing clients’ businesses.  She came to Chalk & Ward following a successful career in Leo Burnett London as a strategic branding specialist, as well as running her own Brand Consultancy business.

She is an exceptionally strong strategic thinker and respected for her ability to approach problems objectively, challenge the norm and develop brand strategies that succeed for clients. She also developed the Chalk & Ward proprietary ‘Core Values’ branding system, proven to help create strategically powerful brands that resonate with target audiences.

Gemma joined the board of Directors in 2021 and is passionate about growing the business whilst continuing to maintain the genuine and collaborative ethos which is at the heart of everything we do.

Q. What’s the best thing about being at Chalk & Ward?

What brought me to Chalk & Ward was the high level of strategic thinking as they were the only agency in Exeter who were doing it properly and to the same standard I had always been used to and what has kept me here since 2012 is the people. One of our own Core Values is ‘Genuine’ and it’s such an important one because it is the ethos of how we are with our clients and each other – I look forward to coming in to work every day which is great thing!

Q. What do you like to get up to outside the agency?

I have two young girls so I have limited free time outside of work!  I have always loved reading so when I’m not running around like a headless chicken, I do manage to get in some reading time which can sometimes be my kindle propped up whilst I’m cooking dinner! I used to be an amateur dramatics performer so love going to the theatre, the cinema or going out for dinner and drinks with friends and family, usually with a glass of wine or two.

As Head of Digital, Greig leads the digital marketing team. He implements all SEO, PPC, manages Social Media, Content Creation, Keyword Optimisation and E-Marketing, as well as overseeing the web development team.

Above all, Greig ensures that we create and deliver campaigns and strategies that generate positive results for our clients and is widely respected for his deep knowledge. He’s passionate about analytical data and measurement and a PPC/Keyword and SEO specialist.

Digital is a continuously changing environment and he takes pride in keeping up-to-date with the latest developments, trends and tools to ensure we are offering the best service at all times. He is a member of the Chartered Institute of Marketing and Google AdWords/Analytics certified.

Q. What’s the best thing about being at Chalk & Ward?

The people. They are always happy to help, go above and beyond when needed, but more importantly – provide a great work culture.  

Q. What do you like to get up to outside the agency?

Anything outdoors, but my partner is a travel writer and hotel reviewer, so most weekends we are away exploring somewhere new in Cornwall and the South West.

As the Websites Manager, Paddy works alongside clients to lead them through the implementation of their digital marketing and website needs.

Paddy joined the team at Chalk & Ward in 2021 having previously worked for the military and NHS.

He is meticulous when it comes to detail and keeping projects on budget and to deadline – which comes in particularly handy when juggling multiple web builds!

You may occasionally spot him in uniform on a Wednesday as he is a reservist for the Royal Navy.

Q. What’s the best thing about being at Chalk & Ward?

Our team. Pure and simple – if I get on well with the people I work with then I am able to do my best work. I have the pleasure of working with such a talented group, that I not only enjoy working with but also enjoy spending time with outside of work.

Q. What do you like to get up to outside the agency?

When the weather allows,  I love to be out on the water – whether paddleboarding, sailing or even just a bit or paddling in the (always cold!) water. I also enjoy playing golf and riding my road bike with friends. All roads normally lead to the pub though!

Imogen is our senior graphic designer. With a passion for both print and digital, she specialises in creating brand identities, and jumps at any opportunity to include illustration in a project.

Imogen has grown up surrounded by creativity, and after studying graphic design at Falmouth University, and working in the industry for over 5 years, this creativity is now at the heart of everything she does.

Working with a wide range of diverse clients has meant that her style can be adapted to meet every client’s needs.

Q. What’s the best thing about being at Chalk & Ward?

One thing I really value about working at Chalk & Ward is that every clients need is different, this means I am constantly being challenged to be flexible and versatile in my approach. I like the fact that this keeps me on my toes, it ensures that my ideas are always fresh, and I never become complacent. Another aspect that I love is how everyone in the agency works together, there’s an amazing line of communication between the different departments and every project feels like a team effort.

Q. What do you like to get up to outside the agency?

As un-cool as it may sound, in lockdown, I discovered an appreciation for bird watching, I would pass time by popping down to the quay with my binoculars and spotting kingfishers, and it’s something I still take joy in! A slightly cooler hobby is stick and poke tattooing, whether it’s on myself, my friends, or anyone willing to trust me with a needle and ink. Another creative outlet for me is pottery, I am no expert, but I thoroughly enjoy getting stuck into it. Something else I love to keep up in my spare time in yoga, keeps the mind and the body feeling good!

As PPC Manager, James leads all of our pay-per-click efforts. He is responsible for creating Google Ads, Microsoft Ads and Meta Ads strategies as well making sure all clients have the most up to date PPC advice.

James has worked in PPC for 8 years in agencies across both the UK and Canada. He’s someone who prides himself on building excellent relationships with clients and knowing his clients needs inside out.

James has worked with hundreds of different clients in his career with all kinds of budgets and always looks for the common sense approach above all – PPC can be very complex and he aims to simplify it!

Q. What’s the best thing about being at Chalk & Ward?

The autonomy we’re all given to create our own strategy/tactics for clients as well as the wonderful team we have.

Q. What do you like to get up to outside the agency?

I love travelling and am already planning my next big trip (to South America). I’m currently learning French (it’s never too late to learn a language!) and I love to watch almost all sports (football, tennis and NFL are my favourites!).

Lauren started working at Chalk and Ward in 2022 as an Account Manager, managing clients and supporting directors.

Previously Lauren has worked for a tech company specialising in utility solutions, as the Marketing Manager and within the charity sector as a Community Fundraising Officer for both a local hospice and national charities.

Lauren is particularly looking forward to developing her skills in both branding and strategic thinking and working collaboratively across all departments, enjoying the creative buzz at Chalk and Ward.

Q. What’s the best thing about being at Chalk & Ward?

The best thing about being at Chalk & Ward is the variety of work, which exposes me to diverse marketing activities across different industries. Equally, the genuine and friendly nature of my colleagues and the camaraderie in the office make every day enjoyable and fulfilling.

Q. What do you like to get up to outside the agency?

I’m Devon born and bred and I love to enjoy everything it has to offer, whether it’s dog walks followed by Sunday lunch at a country pub or enjoying a day at one of the many beautiful beaches in South Devon. I also love curling up on the sofa with a book, gardening (when British weather allows!) and cooking for my friends and family.

As our SEO specialist, Luka is an integral part of our dynamic digital team, bringing her creative ideas and energy to the mix.

Collaborating with our clients, Luka improves their search appearance by monitoring, auditing, and implementing optimisation improvements.

She also undertakes competitor research to provide relevant industry insight.

Luka has the belief that much can be learned from every type of website, whether big or small! She has extensive agency experience both in London and the Westcountry and has serviced some of the largest retail websites in the UK.

Q. What’s the best thing about being at Chalk & Ward?

We all took an Enneagram test (just for LOL’s and a bit of self-discovery). Everyone across the business got varying results and as an agency, we managed to cover the whole personality spectrum! I love this! So many agencies are full of the same types of people but in reality, it takes all types to build a real team of dreams.

Q. What do you like to get up to outside the agency?

I love to hang out with my family, be in nature (as a much needed antidote to work screens!), lift weights and watch movies. I’m also a huge podcast fan and am fascinated by true crime… but only the high-brow stuff of course!

Laura has worked in the media since 2006, training and working as a senior reporter on daily newspapers across the South West. She then moved into copywriting and PR and has extensive experience as a writer, content planner, and contributing editor for magazines. She is also a published childrens author!

Laura has worked with a range of clients including,financial services, luxury travel, healthcare and retail, and charities including ShelterBox and Oxfam. She is also a crisis communications specialist, helping to control the narrative and media coverage to limit reputational damage for several high profile clients.

Q. What’s the best thing about being at Chalk & Ward?

I really enjoy working with the team at Chalk & Ward – everyone’s committed, skilled and fun to be around. We work in a collaborative way, so it means everyone brings something different to the table – sometimes that includes biscuits! Having flexibility around my working life is a plus point too because I have a busy family life. I also enjoy the variety of work I get to do for different clients from care homeowners to architects.

Q. What do you like to get up to outside the agency?

I have three children, so a lot of my time outside of work is spent looking after them! I like to be active, so I often go out on my bike with my children and our dog, armed with a pocket full of Jellybeans to keep moral up. I am a fan of Pilates and more recently, Pvolve. Perhaps unsurprisingly, I also enjoy settling down to read a book.

An accounts and administration specialist, Linda has been ‘handling the money’ for the agency since the very early days. She has an eye for numerical detail and a level of dedication that’s valued both here and by our clients, who find her friendly and helpful approach a pleasure to deal with.

To quote our accountant, “Linda is dedicated, committed and a joy to work with. As a long-serving member of Chalk + Ward’s team she represents the true warm heart of the Agency”.

Q. What’s the best thing about being at Chalk & Ward?

For me, the best thing is definitely the people here at Chalk & Ward, who are both lovely and talented with a can do attitude. I also appreciate the managements approach to flexible working and how we are trusted to just get on with our jobs – it provides us with a really nice and relaxed enironment to work in.

Q. What do you like to get up to outside the agency?

Outside of the agency I like to walk, dance and generally keep fit. I also enjoy reading and meeting up with friends and family. And I love holiday’s in hot sunny places!

Gary is a graduate of the Plymouth of Art & Design and has over 18 years experience working in various creative roles during this time.

He started his career as a traditional graphic designer working on publications and design for printed media but soon became fascinated by digital media and made the move to specialise in web design and front-end development.

As our web design consultant, he advises on all things related to website and mobile design.

With 18 years in the industry and 13 of those working at Chalk + Ward, what Clayton doesn’t know about branding and design is probably not worth knowing.

He’s designed for print, advertising, packaging, direct marketing and integrated work for a number of large brands including BP, Castrol, Wrigleys, Mole Valley Farmers, Café Royal, WKD, Princess Cruises, and P&O Cruises.

He is an expert in brand design – creating successful identities for numerous clients – and in retail, where his knowledge of all retail design elements are market leading.

Rebecca has over 30 years experience in the media industry, with 20 of those years living the media dream in London. There isn’t a title online, in print or on air that she hasn’t cracked and always relishes a challenge. With an exemplary industry reputation, Rebecca is everyone’s ‘go to’ when they need to deliver quantifiable ROI. Her understanding of brand needs, and her ability to deliver real results in a challenging market give her the essential edge needed to impress clients.

Rebecca is able to secure premium, editorially endorsed space across print, on line and on air, which brands use to amplify their brand message with vital added benefits of data capture, customer engagement and increased sales. Rebecca tells it like it is and only advises clients to engage in activity that she believes will deliver the results they want. Still working two days a week in London, Rebecca works with some of the best loved brands and biggest names including Phase Eight, Neutradol, Amazon, Boden and Sky.

From the initial idea to the final full stop, Lara is a copywriter who works in wonderful words to bring out the best in every brand.

She has over 10 years’ experience in tone of voice creation and strategic copywriting, including for Coca-Cola, Ericsson, Nestlé, Revlon, and TSB.

Barabra brings a wealth of experience and a passion for fostering a dynamic and supportive work environment at Chalk & Ward. She advises us on company culture to help shape our people-first strategy, and helps us ensure each team member feels valued, supported, and motivated to achieve their best.

What’s the best thing about being at Chalk & Ward?

The team is the single biggest asset of the agency, seeing them grow as individuals and develop their talent is the best!

What do you like to get up to outside the agency?

I like to be mindful and enjoy the moment, I try to do that as much as possible! I also love to take my dog Poppy out for long countryside walks and being in green space together. And whenever I get the opportunity, I like to travel and explore new places.