The Bird is Back!

Dave Bird and Holdens have history. From his first work placement with late founder Peter Holden in 1993 to joining the agency as senior designer in 2012, he has long been a trusted creative partner and a key part of the agency’s story. That’s why we’re over the moon to say he’s now rejoining us as our Creative Director.

When he was last here, Dave worked closely with Peter to lead the creative team before leaving to broaden his experience within the Manchester agency landscape and eventually establishing his own independent design practice. Over the following years, he delivered brand and digital projects across a wide range of sectors, from e-commerce and education to manufacturing and magic.

Alongside his commercial work, Bird also joined the global Shillington Education team, helping to shape the skills and thinking of the next generation of designers worldwide.

Now, 10 years on, Dave returns to Holdens as Creative Director, leading the agency’s creative vision and overseeing all creative output for our stable of established clients such as Heritage Great Britain and Avant Homes, as well as new clients like the National Coach Network, Bowers & Wilkins and McLaren.

Commenting on his appointment, our Co-Founder and Managing Director Ted Holden, said: “Dave has always embodied the curiosity, craft and creative ambition that define Holdens. His return feels both natural and timely as we continue to evolve the agency and partner with start-up and scale-up brands to help them grow.”

Dave added: “Holdens has always stood for big ideas that move brands forward. Returning as creative director feels like coming home, but with new energy, perspective and momentum. I’m looking forward to helping shape what comes next as we embark on a really exciting time for the agency.”

With Dave’s return, Holdens strengthens its senior creative leadership at a significant moment in the agency’s next chapter of growth as we continue to partner with ambitious start-up and scale-up brands across the UK and beyond.