Today, let us introduce you to Chris Guess, our Graphic Designer and Marketing Executive. With a career that has evolved significantly over the years, Chris plays a vital role in shaping the visual and digital presence of Commercial Express. In this blog, Chris shares insights into his daily responsibilities, career journey, and what keeps him motivated both inside and outside of work.
Can you describe your role and what a typical day looks like for you?
My role at CE is to represent the brand and create and distribute all our marketing across the CE website, social media, and email channels. A typical day might involve developing a marketing campaign for a new product, generating imagery and copy, and then shifting to design an exhibition stand for an upcoming BIBA event. My job is quite varied, which keeps me engaged and happy.
What upcoming projects or initiatives at Commercial Express will you be working on?
I’ll soon be delivering a presentation to SLT on how AI can enhance various job roles. AI has been a game changer for me over the past year, allowing me to elevate my design and copywriting skills. I’m eager to share these insights with CE and offer suggestions on how my colleagues can also benefit from the AI tools and software that have helped me.
What achievements are you most proud of since joining Commercial Express?
The achievement I’m most proud of is how much I’ve developed since I started 8.5 years ago. Initially, I was purely a graphic designer focused on print, but over time, I’ve massively expanded my role, especially in the digital arena. My knowledge of digital marketing has significantly improved, and I rarely deal with printed materials these days. It’s a sign of keeping up with the times and not being left behind, something I’m grateful to CE for.
What distinguishes Commercial Express from other MGAs?
From a competitor’s perspective, it seems we offer so much more to brokers, especially in terms of added value. We provide attentive account managers, knowledgeable underwriters, and our free, award-winning eLearning platform, CE Learning, all included within an agency with CE. Plus, when I look at other MGA websites, they seem plain and boring. Not to toot my own horn, but ours is visually engaging and offers brokers so much more, including trade lists, hot trades, and the CE Help Hub, which features step-by-step guides on various topics.
What do you like to do outside of work?
I try to stay fit, which is mostly achieved by running after my 3-year-old toddler and picking up toys. I also enjoy socialising with friends and family, hosting BBQs when the British weather permits, and, of course, going on holiday to switch off for a few weeks each year.
If you could learn any new skill or hobby, what would it be and why?
I’d love to take up martial arts again at some point. I practised it in my early teens and was pretty good, so I slightly regret not continuing. Maybe it’s something I could revisit if my older bones allow it, and I’d love my son to get involved as he grows up. Martial arts is a great skill and discipline to have; it builds confidence and gives you the ability to defend yourself if you ever need to.
