Could you tell us a bit about Planes and what inspired its creation?
Planes is a digital agency. We ideate, design and build digital products and businesses for our clients. We wanted to create an agency where small teams of experts act like part of your team, using the product building methods of leading startups, rather than clunky old agencies.
When we first started, we worked almost exclusively with startups. As time has gone on, we now work with more established businesses, but the mantra is still the same - small teams with modern methods to bring great products to market.
What was it like building a business in the UK after beginning your career in New Zealand?
My only working experience up until that point was seven years as an Engineering Officer in the Royal New Zealand Air Force. So the change wasn’t only moving to a massive city, but also moving into the private sector.
On the London part, it was incredible the sheer scale of London and the number of businesses you could work with.
On the private sector part, it was a big adjustment working with so many different types of people - both employees and clients. As an engineer in the Air Force, you knew what to expect when dealing with someone else in the org; they all had similar training, rules and etiquette. In the private sector, you get all sorts of experiences and perspectives. That was a real adjustment for me.
The other slightly wild part was our first office was in a WeWork in the heyday of them spending way more money than they had on their tenants. On an air force base, you’d be lucky to see a chocolate digestive. At the WeWork, there would be cocktail carts and a mariachi band springing into your office on a Tuesday. Odd times.
Which achievements or milestones are you most proud of since co-founding Planes?
When we set out to build Planes, we thought that you could build a good business while also doing good. Put simply, make money but be nice to people and the world.
I think we’ve done pretty well there. We’ve become a B Corp, we’ve been on lists of top places to work in the UK, and we’ve hosted a raft of events and programmes for underrepresented people. Plus, we built a decent business which does great work.
Do you have any advice for our students or alumni who might want to start their own business?
You don’t need to put everything on the line to start a new thing. Dip your toes in and manage your downside.
With tech where it is, there has never been an easier time to start a business. So if it’s something you are motivated to do, just give it a crack. Worst case is that you learn a tonne on the way.
Finally, what are some of your favourite memories from your time at UC?
Long nights in the mech suite with your mates, powered by Demon energy drinks. Overly intricate red cards. Adventures with dirt bikes and go-karts.
Pretty much all the stuff that seems like a bad idea in your 30s.
