Our head honcho, account director and resident photographer, JP has over 20 years marketing experience. Educated in Geography & Geology at Bristol University, JP worked initially as a geologist then for BP in New Business Devlopment. After marketing positions in retail and the Hotel Industry JP returned to the oil industry joining Shell in 1994 before branching out on his own to found Zircom in 1999.

Energetic and adventurous, JP is constantly on the move - running marathons, teaching rugby, playing football, cycling, sailing, snowboarding... and on top of that, working. He brings his high-energy and hands-on approach to the team. JP lives in West Kirby with his wife Julie, and his three children Tom, Ben, Ellie.

Personal
Favourite Quote: "Feel the fear and do it anyway" It's actually the title of a book by Susan Jeffers that helps you develop techniques for tackling things that hold you back in life.
Favourite Animal and why: I don't really like animals. But if I had to choose it would probably be a dolphin because they are great swimmers and highly intelligent - a combination of abilities I aspire to.
Person I admire and why: My father-in-law for leading a good life and staying exceptionally positive in the face of adversity.
Charity I support: Cancer Research because it's affected my family very directly and The Princes Trust.

Work
Biggest challenge: Finding quality work opportunities whilst at the same delivering great solutions for clients.
Favourite job: Helping a client's procurement function reach Top Quartile performance. And letting my team get on with fantastic web development.
Recent work I'm proud of: The development of the CO2 calculator is technically interesting and help hauliers find ways of reducing their carbon emissions.
On my mind: How to help my team (and clients) improve their marketing communication skills during a recession. It's a skill set that typically gets down-graded/cut when times are tough. And it's hard to build back-up on the exit.

Links I use...
» CMS Watch
» The Chartered Institute of Marketing
Email: jp@zircom.uk.com

Michael is the innovation guru of the team. After an English degree from the University of Liverpool, Michael spent a year working as an online journalist for Liverpool John Moore's University before joining the Zircom team.

Trained as a copywriter, Michael spends his time translating complicated requests into understandable actions to make sure things get done as effectively as possible. With a natural curiosity to find out "how things work" - he is often the first person we turn to scope a new idea or technology. This balance of left and right-sided brain - creative and rational - makes Michael an indispensable member of the team.

He recently founded the Merseyside Skeptics Society and has a surprisingly bright demeanour for a Newcastle United fan. On top of that, he's Zircom's resident trivia buff, always on hand to dispense interesting and entirely useless information on any topic under the sun!

Personal
Favourite Quote: "It's better to light a candle than to curse the darkness " (Carl Sagan)
Favourite Fruit and Why: Kiwi or peach - there's something about the furriness that's disarmingly unsettling. In a good way.
Favourite Animal and why: Ducks - for the fact that scientists used to believe a duck's quack was the only sound which never echoed... until they found out it does. The mistake was scientifically explained by the reasoning that 'ducks don't hang around in places that echo'.
Interesting fact: I'm an amateur playwright and published poet. I also recently got into a fairly large debate/confrontation with a TV psychic, who took a disliking to me asking him questions...
Person I admire and why: Norman Borlaug - 'The Man Who Fed The World'. He did groundbreaking work in the fields of China, India and Latin America to grow stronger crops, and won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1970 for 'preventing the starvation of over 1 Billion lives'.
Charity I support: Amnesty International, because denying someone's human rights is to deny their humanity.

Work
Biggest challenge: Balancing the needs of a large number of clients, keeping the plates spinning and finding time to expand my horizons at the same time.
Favourite job: Working on the global rollout of over 20 translations of the euroShell website was a real high.
Recent work I'm proud of: The creation of the new Shell Sulphur Solutions site allowed me to really play with the new tools available to come up with something striking.
On my mind: Measuring newsflash metrics.

Links I use...
» Google News
» Google Analytics
Email: michael@zircom.uk.com

Having worked and lived in Spain for a year, Account Manager Clare Brown brings a touch of the multi-lingual to the Zircom office. Joining the team after cutting her teeth as a Creative Account Executive elsewhere, Clare was educated at the University of Liverpool, studying Spanish and Business Studies.

Outside of the office, besides being one of the many Liverpool fans in the Zircom team, Clare likes to keep fit by running and visiting the gym - although she admits this is primarily to balance out her slightly-less-healthy loves of eating out and socialising with friends!

Personal:
Favourite Fruit and Why: Strawberries - they are lovely and sweet and a sign that summer is here.
Interesting fact: I lived and worked in Madrid for a year.
Currently reading: The Girl Who Played With Fire - the Larsson range is a great read. Will watch the films too but they are never as good as the books!
Charity I support: Help for Heroes - what else needs to be said... they are all heroes.

Work
Biggest challenge: Ensuring all of our clients always receive the highest level of service whilst continuing to recognise the challenges they face, and support them in achieving their goals. Multi-tasking is essential!
On my mind: Currently it is all aspects of Shell - the brand, the divisions, the numerous clients and the various briefs that are currently coming our way. I am always thinking of what we will do and what we can do next...
Favourite job: My job!

Links I use...
» Marketing Week
» Linked In
Email: clare@zircom.uk.com

David is the design brain and creative hub of of the team. He is also a technical expert and his mentality of 'there is no problem without solution' is an invaluable asset. Learning his graphical and digital trade at the University of Glasgow and honing his skills at a design agency in Manchester, David made the move down to Merseyside to join Zircom in January 2006.

Glaswegian David keeps the rest of the team entertained with his happy-go-lucky ‘banter' and is a dab hand with an Apple Mac.

Outside of the office, David is a Glasgow Rangers fan. He lives with his girlfriend and cat (Tom), in a house strategically located between the office and the nearest good pub.

Personal
Favourite Quote: "Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail"
Favourite Fruit and Why: Apples - loads of different types such as Granny Smith, Braeburn and Pink Lady; they are readily available in shops unlike lychees and the likes. I like the crunching noise they make albeit some of my colleagues don't - but that's their problem! And above all they are pretty tasty. Plus I love Apple Macs...
Interesting fact: I worked in Cyprus and Crete for two years on a Party Boat Cruise.
Person I admire and why: My Dad has worked as an engineer all his life in the UK and abroad and, I believe, has the right outlook on life. He has always supported me and never judged me. More importantly - he is one of the only people in my life that can truely make me cry with laughter!
Charity I support: Cancer Research - for obvious reasons

Work
Biggest challenge: Keeping up with the ever changing and evolving technologies. A good challenge may I add.
Favourite job: Re-branding The Rich Lady and S&DA allowed me to flex my creative muscles. Working on a company logo and designing their brand is the whole point of being a designer.
Recent work I'm proud of: Creating an Invoicing Tool in Chinese has been a technical and linguistic challenge - and it's one I've jumped on and hopefully cracked!
On my mind: Javascript.

Links I use...
» 6 Music
» Creative Review
Email: david@zircom.uk.com

James 'Jay' Jones, a born and bread scouser is the most recent recruit to Zircom's design team. After graduating from university in 2010 with a BSc Hons in IT & Multimedia, he brings a fresh outlook to the creative hub of the office.

In his spare time, Jay likes nothing more than to spend his time on the slopes, having been a committee member for a snowriders club and university and taking every chance he gets to jet off to the mountains. Besides the snow, Jay is a self-confessed petrol head, and loves to keep fit through squash and running.

Personal
Favourite Quote: "Reach for the moon, if you fail, you will land among the stars"
Favourite Animal and why: Koala Bear, the one creature that takes its time in a fast moving world.
Interesting fact: I've visited every continent in the world. apart from antarctica.....its not really a tourist destination.
Person I admire and why: My Mum, who passed away in 2009. The most incredible person I have ever met!!!
Charity I support: St Josephs Hospice Thornton, Cancer Research

Work
Biggest challenge: Keeping on top of all the new tools/applications which are constantly being updated.
Favourite job: Creating the artwork for the Rome awards ceremony for Shell Retail PMTDR.
Recent work I'm proud of: Designing a set of illustrations, including a truck, moped, bus and van which were incorporated in a high profile Shell piece of work to promote the eco-Marathon.

Links I use...
» Flashkit
» Creative Review
» Radio 1
Email: jay@zircom.uk.com

Having been on the road for over ten years, Carl joined Zircom after marrying his long-term girlfriend, becoming our resident salesman and bringing his considerable experience with him. With a personable and somewhat relaxed style, coupled with a professional and insightful outlook, Carl brings a whole new dimension to the team.

Outside of the office, Carl makes the most of his not-insignificant stature – he’s 6"7 -  as part of the St Annies rugby team. He’s also a keen mountain biker, as well as an even keener frequenter of his local public house, The Shrewsbury Arms.

Personal
Favourite Animal and why: Cats because they retain a level of sophistication no matter what the task plus I own one called Milton who’s so popular he got a toast and cheers during our wedding speeches.
Interesting fact: I have the blood type AB- which only 0.45% of the population share. Rare stuff.
Person I admire and why: My wife, Rachel. The most dedicated, hardworking & loving person I’ve ever met by an absolute mile.
Charity I support: Myself and resident designer David Dunlop raised £2000 last year. Grow the mo!

Work
Biggest challenge: Building fresh client partnerships that are sustainable and deliverable.
Favourite job: The next one...
Recent work I'm proud of: Laying the foundations for Zircom’s new business activities.
On my mind: New clients, new clients, new clients, new clients...

Links I use...
» Marketing Managers Info
» Linkedin
Email: carl@zircom.uk.com

Andrew’s youth is in stark contrast to his attitude and approach – eager and diligent, his attention-to-detail is second to none. Having graduated from York University with a degree in Sociology, Andrew has worked in a range of industries from Print Media to Internet Marketing with the Times 100.

With almost 10 years of interest and experience in ICT, Andrew built his first computer at the age of 13 – giving him technical know-how to assess and master a whole range of software and hardware.

A keen cook, Andrew enjoys spending his free time creating culinary delights and tasting wine.

Personal
Favourite Quote:
“The harder I work the more I live. ” (George Bernard Shaw )
Favourite Animal and why:
Sharks. If sharks ever stop swimming they die which is similar to my attitude of what will happen if I stop working.
Interesting fact:
Previously, I played Ice Hockey as a 2nd line defence man and was part of the Kingston U16s when they won the English Ice Hockey Championship.
People I admire and why:
My parents for showing me how to be, in the future, an incredible parent.
Charity I support:
Help for Heroes - I appreciate the fact that soldiers are risking their lives on a day-to-day basis for the freedom of others.

Work
Biggest challenge:
Having time to learn and develop new skills whilst maintaining a high quality service for clients.
Favourite job:
Fixing things that are broken.
Recent work I'm proud of:
Making three Shell websites the highest ranked Shell websites, in terms of accessibility, usability and search engine optimisation.
On my mind:
What skills and technical knowledge will our clients be wanting in the future?

Links I use...
» The Register
» Campaign Monitor Blog
Email: andrew@zircom.uk.com

Ferg brings with him not only the most Scottish name in history, but also a broad depth of talent that is already paying dividends both for the team and our increasing client roster.

Hired for his talented web development skills, Ferg possess the right blend of creative and technical understanding of our CMS platforms whilst also adding some laconic cool to the floor. A background in marketing and databases has allowed Account Manager Michael to share the load with him from the get go, fitting in very quickly and bringing added value

Personal
Favourite Quote: “Be not afraid of greatness: some men are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them.”
Favourite Animal and why: Siberian tiger, one of the most beautiful yet deadly creatures on the planet
Interesting fact: Passed all the tests to be an RAF pilot except one: eyesight... bye bye Top Gun, hello Zircom!
Person I admire and why: my mum. She’s shown amazing strength and overcome all of life’s tougher challenges over the past few years
Charity I support: Cancer Research UK

Work
Biggest challenge: Taking on so much new information
Favourite job: Teamsite
Recent work I'm proud of: Stats reports for the webmaster of euroShell
On my mind: New Zircom intranet creation

Links I use...
» Sage Analyst
» Magus
» Google Analytics
Email: fergus@zircom.uk.com

Born and bred in Coventry, Joe moved to Liverpool in 2004 to study Communication, Media and Popular Music at The University of Liverpool. Choosing to remain in the city after graduating, he worked as an Editorial Assistant for a local lifestyle Magazine before joining the Zircom team.

In his spare time, Joe enjoys listening to music and reading. He also likes to go surfing both in the UK and abroad when the opportunity arises.

Personal
Interesting fact: In my spare time I enjoy making music and have had some of my tracks released on independent record labels.
Currently listening to: Mount Kimbie, Bodycode, Ben Frost and Pez’s eclectic Spotify playlist (includes Spandau Ballet and the Glee soundtrack!)
Currently Reading: Down and Out in Paris and London by George Orwell, Shell Communications Style Guide.
Currently Watching: All Watched over, Stewart Lee’s Comedy Vehicle, The Apprentice.

Work
Biggest challenge: Finding the right balance when juggling work for a number of different clients.
Favourite job: Getting creative when designing new web page layouts.
Recent work I'm proud of: Creating an online survey and subsequently receiving good feedback from a client.
On my mind: Making sure Shell copy is compliant with the communications style guidelines.

Email: joe@zircom.uk.com

Fast-talking and bright, Siobhan brings a boundless enthusiasm to everything she does. Building on a background in International Business, she spent four years as Study Supporter at an educational intiative run by Liverpool Football Club before joining Zircom, so she's certainly well-placed to keep some of the rest of the team in line!

When not in the office Siobhan can be found regularly glued to the latest episode of Glee, dragging her friends into yet another kareoke bar or crafting new excuses to avoid going to the gym.

Personal
Favourite Quote: 'There is a lid for every pan’ (regularly said by my Nan when discussing partners or often the lack of them!).
Favourite Animal and why: I’m not really an animal fan but I am very fond of my brother’s dog, Molly. She’s a Westie, and the closest I’m getting to a niece or nephew any time soon!
Interesting fact: Depends on your definition of interesting... but I’ve been to see Boyzone 24 times and counting...
Person I admire and why: I come from an extremely close family, who are high in numbers and spread around the country, and I continuously admire them all for the constant support and help they give each other. There has never been any fallings out or major disagreements amongst them, and I feel very privileged to be part of such a close-knit and unshakeable bunch. They know how to have a good time too!
Charity I support: I don’t support one charity in particular but I do regularly support and donate when people are doing wonderful things such as abseiling and running marathons to raise money for charity – they’re far more brave than I am.

Work
Biggest challenge: Maintaining a high standard of work while l learn new things on a daily basis.
Favourite job: I really enjoy working on projects such as newsletters as I can see them right through from beginning to end.
Recent work I'm proud of: The Shell Global Solutions Impact Online newsletter.

Email: siobhan@zircom.uk.com

Denise is Zircom's head for figures. With over 30 years' experience in finance and accounting, and an AAT Technician NVQ underway, she ensures our wheels keep turning and the business keeps moving. With her upbeat and friendly demeanour, and her accounting acumen, she makes it as easy as possible for the rest of the team to function and keeps the books balanced - helping to ensure Zircom keeps sailing smoothly

Outside of the office, Denise enjoys spending time with her family - between the demands of her two teenagers daughters and her ginger tom-cat (called Homer), her leisure time is rarely too leisurely!

Personal
Favourite Quote: Happiness is not something readymade. It comes from your own actions.
Favourite Fruit and Why: Strawberries because they go great with Champagne.
Favourite Animal and why: I'd have to say a cat, because they're cute and cuddly, plus my own cat would be annoyed if I said anything else!
Interesting fact: 'Almost' is the longest word in the English language with all the letters in alphabetical order.
Person I admire and why: Nelson Mandela. Why? He was jailed in South Africa for 27 years, during Apartheid, and not only survived but then became the president.
Charity I support: St John's Hospice at Clatterbridge, which cares for long-term cancer patients.

Work
Biggest challenge: Chasing payments can often prove very tricky - sometimes, especially in the current climate, it can take a very long time for payment to come through, and keeping the books balanced and cashflow steady can be present real challenge.
Favourite job: I like all aspects of my job really, even the challenging ones! If I'm totally honest, I'd say I secretly quite like asking people for money!
Recent work I'm proud of: I recently reduced our debtor-days from around 120 down to around 80, which is a reduction of roughly a 3rd - quite an achievement in today's financial market I think.
On my mind: Upgrading our accounting software.

Links I use...
» HR Revenue Customs
Email: denise@zircom.uk.com

Personal
Favourite Quote: If the sky is the limit then how come there are footprints on the moon.
Favourite Fruit and Why: Apples because they can be eaten on the go.
Favourite Animal and why: Dogs, because I have two Mastiffs who are gorgeous.
Interesting fact: Your foot is as big as your arm from your elbow to your wrist.
Person I admire and why: My Nan, because she was the most selfless person I have ever met.
Charity I support: Cancer Research. Cancer affects so many families including my own, so it’s nice to be able to contribute towards this well deserved charity.

Work
Biggest challenge: Learning the quirks of a new accountancy package is always challenging.
Favourite job: Account Reconciliation - I love it when I get things balanced!
On my mind: Simplifying the reports

Links I use...
» HR Revenue Customs
Email: michelle@zircom.uk.com

With her youthful outlook and sense of humour, coupled with a fantastic attention-to-detail, Amanda keeps the office running - organising maintenance, ordering supplies and ensuring the rest of the team have everything they need to concentrate on their roles.

Multi-tasking her position at Zircom with the demands of her family life, as well as a second part-time job, Amanda's swan-calm surface appearance belies the work she puts in behind the scenes.

Personal
Favourite Quote: "If you could choose one characteristic that would get you through life, choose a sense of humour."
Favourite Vegetable and Why: Broccoli!... The stalks are the best! Doesn't everybody just love Broccoli stalks?
Favourite Animal and why: I like pigs. Dogs look up to us. Cats look down on us. Pigs treat us as equals.
Interesting fact: I'm younger than I look!
Person I admire and why: My husband, he has a lot to put up with!
Charity I support: Cancer research and MND, both have affected my family.

Work
Biggest challenge: Keeping JP in biscuits!
Favourite job: Shopping
Recent work I'm proud of: Anything that get's a "well done" at the end of it makes me proud!
On my mind: My next challenge... An extension to the office

Links I use...
» Google