Mark English, Exhibition Manager
Introduction
Mark English
Mark English, is exhibition and installations manager at Ottimo Digital. Often found travelling between Newport and graphics installations around the country, he is responsible for coordinating and managing the delivery of all of Ottimo’s print production, from exhibition signage to building wraps and corporate branding jobs. Mark’s formidable organisational skills are the result of years of experience in exhibition graphics and print and are only rivalled by his determination to achieve the best possible results for Ottimo's clients.
How long have you been working at Ottimo Digital?
I've known Lee Crew since we were colleagues in the exhibition industry 20 years ago, and we've always kept in touch as our careers developed. Some years later, I was running my own business, and Ottimo had become one of our most valued clients, and it was clear that this company was an exciting prospect. Nick and Lee were clearly determined to make Ottimo the best in the business and the best to work for, and succeeding! When Nick and Lee approached me with this role a few years ago, I jumped at the chance.
What’s the most challenging part of your role?
Details. So often, the difference between good and genuinely excellent work comes down to details, and there are so many to consider in the work we do for our clients. From the initial enquiry to the final delivery, where I’ll be onsite to install, supervise and keep our client informed, there are dozens of individual organisational and logistical challenges to overcome. From booking accommodation and access platforms for our installation teams to ensuring the fitting and mounting components are suitable for the location, everything has to come together at installation time, without fail.
What should we be looking out for in the future of digital print?
You'd think that flexible display screens and the kind of display technology that's in the pipeline will change the game for exhibition graphics, but the near future will be defined by innovations in sustainability. Not only are there important drivers to reduce waste materials and emissions, but there are strong economic arguments for increasing reusability and recyclability through the choice of inks, substrates and other materials. Right now, huge strides are being made in wide-format fabric printing, which aligns well with our customer base in events and exhibitions.
What are the most important things you have learned in your career in print?
I've learned the importance of good teamwork throughout my career and that it takes practice and dedication to do it successfully. I've been fortunate enough to work with some fantastic mentors who have passed on their knowledge and working practices and discovered that the most critical lessons apply to every kind of working situation.