Our story

No grit, no Pearlfisher.

Our name is inspired by the Ama: Japanese women who've been free-diving for pearls for centuries. No oxygen tanks. Just breath. And depth.

That same courage and grit has driven our studios for 35 years.

Our independence gives us the freedom to dive deeper than passing trends and go straight to the real thought beneath your brand. Then comes the craft: surfacing that powerful, ownable truth brilliantly.

Who we work with: Leaders who challenge the obvious, and know that brilliance demands grit, curiosity, and a willingness to go further.

Who we don't: Anyone who harms the planet, or our people. No unpaid work. No free exclusivity.

We're a B Corp for a reason.

Leadership

Mike BransonFounding Partner & Group Chairman

Mike Branson founder of Pearlfisher

Always aim for a win-win outcome.

"I studied as a linguist, trained in advertising and landed in design, where I met my future business partners. Over 30 years on, I still feel fortunate to be enjoying the adventure we began together.

My role has evolved over time, from client management to business strategy and leadership, and now to stewardship. Along the way, I spent twelve years living in New York and leading our US business, gaining hands-on experience on both sides of the Atlantic. Today I help guide Pearlfisher across London and New York and shape the next generation of the business.

We’ve always believed design can be a force for good, powered by a collaborative, independent culture. For me, this means building a progressive, ethical brand design agency where outstanding creativity and business excellence go hand in hand, and talented, ambitious people can flourish.

We’ve developed Pearlfisher around strong values, and my role is to ensure that this culture endures and evolves. That suits my natural mentoring and facilitative approach - with a pragmatic outlook, a steady sense of optimism and an instinct for finding common ground.

Outside Pearlfisher, previous trusteeships with Amantani, championing education in Peru, and the NY Iyengar Yoga Association have stretched and enriched my experience. Road biking keeps me grounded. I love the struggle of the climb, the speed of the downhill and the view from the summit."

Jonathan FordFounding Partner & Group Creative Director

Jonathan Ford

Pushing the limits of what creative thinking can do for business and culture.

“Over four decades, my role has evolved from pack designer to shaping futures to inspire and drive meaningful progress for people and the planet.

As Co-Founder and Group Chairman, I build high-level relationships with like-minded clients and creative leaders. I share executive creative thinking that goes far beyond individual briefs to make a lasting impact.

I’m proud to say Pearlfisher has built some of the world’s most recognizable brands, including Cadbury Dairy Milk, Green & Black’s, Waitrose, Target, Wolfgang Puck, Jamie Oliver, Help Remedies, and Jim Beam. Along the way, we’ve picked up dozens of Design Effectiveness Awards and a coveted Gold Cannes Lion.

I’m here to challenge and inspire. Whether mentoring emerging talent or partnering with brand founders, I push the limits of what creative thinking can do for business and culture.

Off the clock, I chair the Haller Foundation, supporting ecological community development in Africa. And when I’m completely offline, I’m usually out in the garden, designing a different kind of plot.”

Elliott CaloGlobal CFO/COO

Navigating growth, change, and opportunity.

“Across 30 years in creative agencies, advertising, marketing, and non-profits, I’ve worn almost every hat, from agency shareholder to founder of a financial practice for creative businesses. I guide organizations through pivotal moments of growth and change, in both uncertainty and opportunity.

During my career, I’ve overseen financial planning, business operations, and strategic initiatives across multiple sectors and agency models. My role is to bring steady guidance, build trust, and clear the runway so our teams can do their best work.

Off the clock, I’m usually traveling, cycling, playing drums or bass, or spending time with family.”

Maddie FortescueGlobal Head of People

Investing in your people is what gives you the edge.

“As Head of HR, I align people practices with business performance. Across recruitment, performance management, learning and development, and resource management, I make sure our culture actively supports our ambitions.

For over a decade, I’ve led global teams across different cultures and time zones. I have successfully managed change within an organization, establishing trust between HR and business leaders, as well as performance and operations.

I’m a principle-led leader who tackles challenges head-on. Great strategy gets you in the game, but investing in your people is what gives you the edge.”

William MaughanManaging Director | LDN

The value is in the depth.

“Great brands are built when commercial ambition meets deep human connection. That conviction has shaped my career, and today it shapes how I lead Pearlfisher London. Strategy-first and human-centred, we build brand experiences that hold together across the whole customer journey, physical and digital. Helping organisations navigate their moments of change and growth.”

I’ve partnered with leaders across retail, financial services, travel and hospitality, media, and telecoms. My work spans global brands like Phoenix Group, 20th Century Fox, Radisson, Aviva, and BT, as well as iconic British brands including John Lewis & Partners, British Airways, Asda, Tesco, Waitrose, and Virgin Group.

At Pearlfisher, I guide our team to dive deeper, bringing together strategy and creativity to surface the pearl in every brand we touch.

Colleagues and clients describe me as constructively challenging, emotionally intelligent, and highly collaborative. I aim to bring calm, clarity, and true partnership to every project.”

Justine AllanManaging Director | NYC

Justine Allan

Bridging strategy and design to focus on true brand purpose.

“As Managing Director at Pearlfisher NYC, I accelerate growth both for our clients and our agency.

Over my career at Design Bridge, Moving Brands, Turner Duckworth, and now Pearlfisher, I’ve built transformative relationships with global brands like Unilever, Diageo, PepsiCo, L'Oréal, and HP.

Trained in Product Design at Central Saint Martins, I blend semiotics with real-world design thinking. It’s a foundation that shapes every strategic direction I set and every creative idea I champion.

I lead a team of many talents, bridging strategy and design to elevate brands from functional to desirable and creating measurable commercial impact.

My approach? Honest communication, empathetic insight, and a low tolerance for anything that doesn't serve a brand’s true purpose. I listen closely to translate what clients actually need, not just what they ask for.”

Jon NichollsGlobal Technology Director

Staying two steps ahead of the tech so the studio stays focused on design.

“I may spend my life behind the scenes, but when it comes to technology, I’m always one step ahead. As Head of IT, I lead our global tech team, setting the strategy, running operations, and making sure our systems keep pace with our creative ambitions.

I oversee tech projects that directly support our business goals. Whether designing, integrating, or upgrading new systems, my focus is on making daily work easier, faster, and more seamless for everyone across our studios.

I love the challenge of staying ahead of the curve - finding clever tech solutions that improve daily collaboration and future-proof our global operations.”

Matt SiaExecutive Creative Director | NYC

Knowing when to break the rules to stand out.

“For over two decades, I’ve built brand identities, visual systems, pack design, and brand worlds across food and beverage, pharma, fashion, wellness, and premium spirits.

I’ve partnered with icons like McDonald’s, General Mills, PepsiCo, Starbucks, Colgate, Campari, GoMacro, Diageo, Suntory, and AB InBev, as well as challenger brands such as Brew Dr, Genio Della Pizza, Intelligentsia, Thistle, and Sylva.

Good design isn't just about big ideas. It's in the craft of the details and knowing when to break the rules to stand out. As a partner, I build on trust; as a leader, I push for sharp, inspiring work that makes a real mark.

Working with a team of design specialists, we dive deep to uncover what makes every brand unmissable.

Outside design, you’ll find me in the kitchen tweaking recipes, writing and playing music, or building something by hand.”

Chloe TemplemanExecutive Creative Director | LDN

Throughout my 18-year career, I've had the privilege of working with exceptional teams at Design Bridge, Brand Union, and Big Fish. My work has been recognized with various accolades, including D&AD Pencils, Pentawards, New York Festivals, FAB Awards, and DBA Design Effectiveness Awards. But beyond the trophies, what truly drives me is a passion for design excellence and the power of big ideas to transform brands.

Fostering emerging talent and advancing our industry remains close to my heart. As Co-President of Pentawards and as an Executive Creative Director and mentor at D&AD Shift Studio, I've dedicated myself to mentorship and advocacy.

I'm proud to bring my creative energy and passion for big ideas to guide our talented multidisciplinary design team while overseeing our diverse client portfolio that spans tech, beauty, healthcare, food and beverage, lifestyle, and beyond.

Kim StoreySenior Director, Finance | LDN

Kim Storey

Balancing financial rigor with creative energy.

“As Senior Director of Finance, I look after the financial and commercial health of Pearlfisher London, working closely with our leadership team to shape the direction of the business and make sure we’re in the strongest possible position for the future.

My role goes well beyond the numbers. From financial strategy and business performance to legal matters, managing risk and supporting our people, I’m involved in all aspects of running the agency. I believe in being pragmatic, asking the difficult questions and finding solutions that work for both our people and the business.

I’ve spent my career in the creative industry and understand that financial success and creative ambition aren’t competing priorities. The real value comes from finding the right balance between the two, giving talented people the freedom to do brilliant work while building a business that thrives.

Outside of Pearlfisher, I’m a Trustee and Treasurer of the Haller Foundation, and I look after the social media for my local village show. And when I do manage to switch off completely, there’s nothing I love more than escaping into a good book.”

Courtney TightHead of Client Partnerships & Program Management | NYC

Shaping global partnerships on a foundation of trust and empathy.

“As Head of Client Partnerships & Program Management, I oversee our client relationships and lead our world-class Client Partnerships and Program Management teams. Since joining Pearlfisher in 2014, I’ve guided our partners to award-winning work while making sure we bring rigor and joy to every creative engagement.

I’ve built long-lasting relationships with challengers and Fortune 500 icons alike, including McDonald’s, Tecate, Yoplait, HP, Intelligentsia Coffee, Suntory Global Spirits, Driscoll’s, and Wolfgang Puck. My background at FutureBrand working with The Walt Disney Company and Axalta Coating Systems helped shape my global perspective.

With over a decade in the industry, I am passionate about turning complex challenges into long-term growth opportunities rooted in trust and curiosity. I love building brands that impact how people think, feel, and experience the world.

Born in Australia and raised in Thailand, I lived in four countries before moving to New York in 2012. I bring a global mindset to the work, along with an Aussie sense of humor, and an empathetic, strategic and creative touch.

Outside of the studio, you’ll find me running with the Prospect Park Track Club, cooking, or solving the NYT Crossword.”

Margot ColeouExecutive Growth Director

Margot Coleou, Head of Client Partnerships

Great brands are built on enduring partnerships.

“French by origin, Londoner by trade. My entire 15-year career has been shaped by London’s restless creative and commercial energy. Over the past 12 years at Pearlfisher, my role has evolved from leading client partnerships on the ground to holding executive responsibility for the agency’s overarching growth vision.

My role unites new business development, client growth, and commercial leadership into one seamless function. In practice, that means our creative ambition is always tethered to your commercial reality. As executive sponsor across our key accounts, I ensure our clients don't just experience Pearlfisher as a creative partner, but as an invested, long-term commercial ally who understands their boardroom realities, champions their ambitions, and delivers continuity from the first conversation through years of partnership.

I lead with high accountability and open doors. For me, brand building is an adventure rooted in transparency, mutual respect, and the relentless pursuit of what’s next.”

Natalie ProutExecutive Strategy Director | LDN

"As Executive Strategy Director at Pearlfisher London, I champion strategy as a lever for growth and a springboard for world-class brand expression.

I lead an incredible team of strategists who bring curiosity, rigour and fresh perspectives to every brief.

I’ve led strategy teams at JKR and founded my own branding studio, partnering with brands including Pret A Manger, AB InBev, Warner Bros. and Big Issue Group. From high-profile global brand refreshes to multi-channel, culture-defining campaigns, the job is fundamentally the same: understand the brand deeply, then find the idea that makes people choose it.

I’m commercially minded at heart. I love getting under the skin of a business, asking the hard questions and cutting through the data to find the insights that change everything. I’ll challenge clients to challenge themselves, because standing still is the riskiest move any brand can make.

Years of working across Los Angeles, London and a few other stops along the way taught me to see brands through more than one cultural lens. Wherever I am, I bring a little wit, a lot of warmth and plenty of energy to push past the obvious and get to the good stuff."

Christina PapaleHead of Strategy | NYC

Going deep to challenge what branding can be.

“I’m both an entrepreneur and intrepreneur so Pearlfisher’s innovative culture lets me go deep, challenging what branding can be.

I’ve had over 20 years to invent and experiment. As founder of Verboten Group and a strategic leader at CBX and Interbrand, I’ve touched nearly every Fortune 500 category imaginable. I’ve taken insights from F&B, beauty, and tech, and cross-pollinated them with motor oil, women’s health, and cannabis. I believe true innovation really happens when you shift your perspective to surface brilliance.

New York is home but exploring new places and connecting with different cultures fuels my work. ​​It gives me the empathy and insight needed to build brands that people fall in love with, and that love them right back.”

Adam BentleyHead of Production | NYC

Adam Bentley, Head of Realization

Moving into my fourth decade working in the design industry, I remain committed to learning, evolving, and applying my expertise in production to the teams and partners I collaborate with. Currently specializing in brand design at Pearlfisher, my career has encompassed digital photo restoration, prepress and reprographics, as well as production management for leading design agencies across London before transitioning to New York.

I have played a key role in bringing globally recognized brands to market, including Molson Coors, Campari, LVMH, General Mills, Kraft Heinz, and McCain, along with numerous private label and supermarket campaigns.

My passion for luxury packaging stems from its emphasis on precision and craftsmanship. I take great satisfaction in crafting distinctive tactile and visual experiences, carefully developed over extended timeframes to ensure exceptional quality and impact.