Dan Hardaker

Director of Digital Strategy & Innovation / Owner at Proctor + Stevenson | B Corp Certified | BIMA Creative Council Member | Webflow Expert

United Kingdom

About

I am an seasoned digital media, marketing, and brand expert, and specialist in both UX and UI design. I have lead the ground-breaking work in Atomic Design, Pattern Libraries and Webflow has pushed Proctor + Stevenson forward as a true global leader in digital creative, with Panasonic now adopting my approach (and guidance) as it develops a worldwide suite of websites and online services. I am at the forefront of innovation at P+S, keeping our clients’ sites competitive and efficient with fresh digital initiatives, solutions and integrations. ‍ I'm also an ardent champion of new creative talent in the south-west England and Wales, having been a student mentor and leading light in the national Design Buddies graduate programme, and lead judge in the Proctor + Stevenson Design and Digital Awards.

Experience

  • Creative Council Member at BIMA (British Interactive Media Association)
    Dec 2023 - Present · 2 yrs 7 mos

  • Proctor + Stevenson (13 yrs 9 mos)
    • Director of Digital Strategy & Innovation / Owner
      Jun 2023 - Present · 3 yrs 1 mo

      Co-led the strategic direction of the agency as a board member and co-owner, shaping vision, culture, and long-term growth plans. Defined and executed the agency’s digital strategy, aligning it with commercial goals and evolving client needs. Lead the adoption of emerging technologies including AI, automation, and cloud platforms to future-proof service offerings. Directed cross-functional digital transformation projects, improving internal operations and client delivery across design, development, and marketing. Championed innovation by launching pilot initiatives, experimentation, and nurturing partnerships with technology providers and start-ups. Oversee integration of key digital platforms including CRM, CMS, analytics, and workflow tools to streamline operations and enhance transparency. Used data-driven insights to guide strategic decisions, optimise digital experiences, and demonstrate measurable impact for clients. Built a culture of continuous innovation and learning within the agency, leading capability-building initiatives across teams. Represented the agency in board-level decisions and industry forums, contributing to commercial strategy, client acquisition, and strategic partnerships.

    • Director of Digital Design
      Apr 2021 - Sep 2023 · 2 yrs 6 mos

    • Head of Digital Design
      May 2016 - Mar 2021 · 4 yrs 11 mos

      • Human centred design is a crucial part of my role. I have a passion for UX, UI, wireframing and user journey tasks. • Manage projects with design and front-end dev teams to ensure all tasks are delivered to a high standard, deadline and on budget. • Quality assurance is a huge part of my job. I have exceptional attention to detail and always ensure we are presenting our best and most innovative ideas to the client. I encourage my team to think outside the box, we don’t copy competitors, we are leaders. • I am responsible leading teams to design, develop and deliver multiple projects for clients such as Panasonic Business, Saudi Arabian Airlines and Rathbone Investment Management. The exceptional feedback has lead to further digital projects and long standing client retention. • Agile is essential for my team to utilise daily, it ensures everyone understands the tasks assigned to them, the timeframes and any blockers. In addition to this, we hold stand up meeting every morning, for everyone to give their headlines for the day and flag any issues. • I have an extremely positive attitude and am approachable to all members of my team. I keep morale high and encourage everyone to strive to produce the best work they can. I conduct the annual appraisals for my team which is an opportunity to increase motivation and efficiency and address any training which will help develop their role.

  • JASON WEST ASSOCIATES LIMITED (6 yrs 7 mos)
    • Senior Digital Designer
      2008 - Jan 2012 · 4 yrs 1 mo

      • Working with a variety of international clients to deliver website, e-newsletters, online banners, blogs, social media and flash applications. • Design and production of a variety of print marketing collateral including brochures, flyers, stationary and advertising. • 3D product renderings. • Developing high quality websites which adhere to W3C standards and practices. • Hand coding in HTML/ASP and CSS. • Build and develop custom CMS.

    • Graphic Digital designer
      Jul 2005 - Jan 2008 · 2 yrs 7 mos

  • Junior Web Designer at Freestyle New Media
    Jun 2002 - Aug 2003 · 1 yr 3 mos

    Working as part of a large design team in a fast-paced environment. My role required me to assist with a vast variety of jobs, meet tight deadlines and produce up-to-date graphic media.