Leaders Q&A with Sophie Richards, Flock

Hi Sophie, tell us all about your business, please.

My business is Flock, a design and advertising agency based in Edinburgh, which I established in 2009 during dicey economic times. We work with many different kinds of business, mostly but not exclusively in Scotland. Clients include Royal Zoological Society of Scotland, Ryden, Camera Obscura, National Museums Scotland and Laura Bond.

Flock’s work falls into two categories:

Brand look and feel: With a brand refresh or total redesign, we have clients feeling like themselves again in no time. Plus, we can expand on a client’s branding with a full-suite of creative visuals to apply across their communications.

Creative campaigns: From digital ads to taxi wraps to massive 48-sheet billboards, we do it all. From creative concept to design delivery, we work closely with client teams to develop campaigns that perfectly align with their marketing goals.

What inspired you to set up Flock?

The desire to work more fairly and transparently, and to have the opportunity to foster client relationships that are built on trust.

What is the bravest thing you’ve done while building Flock?

Setting Flock up to begin with. I’d never considered running my own business but when the opportunity arose it was a case of right time and right place. Then, taking the business on as solo owner a few years ago, I have surprised myself with how much I love the autonomy and freedom. And I have learned so much in the process.

How has Framework helped your business on its journey so far?

Sean Mavor and the Framework team were already working with Flock before I became the sole owner and helped me so much with the transition. They have always been incredibly supportive and patient, but especially when I was ‘learning the ropes’ financially after performing a mainly creative role.

What’s next for Flock?

We’ve just launched our Flock Consults offering to support businesses with troubleshooting, creative direction and mentoring. A mixture of hands-on creative consulting and fractional creative director services, Flock Consults is designed to help clients gain complete confidence in their team’s work and in their brand’s creative endeavours. 

What advice would you give to other aspiring business founders?

Do it and you won’t go back.

What resources have you found most useful for developing and growing your business?

I’m about to join the Association of Scottish Visitor Attractions (ASVA) as my travel and tourism experience is a perfect fit. I’m also planning to launch myself into the world of SWURF to meet some new people and widen my network.

Find out more about Sophie and Flock by visiting Flock’s website and connecting with Sophie Richards on LinkedIn.