Knutt to head up Somerset Design Enterprise Network

The Somerset Design Enterprise Network has appointed Andrew Knutt as chairman, as it relaunches and restructures its management.

Knutt, director of Taunton-based consultancy ADK and previously vice-chairman of the network, is also a committee member of SDEN’s regional parent organisation, the South West Design Forum.

Richard Holt, former SDEN chairman and fellow in creative industries and enterprise at the University of Plymouth, becomes vice-chairman.

Holt says the organisation, which was formed in 2005, is developing a number of projects to promote design in the county, including a new training programme ‘designed by designers for designers’, the development of drop-in support centres across the region, and a tool to measure return on design investment for small and medium-sized enterprises.

Knutt says, ‘Much has been achieved in the group’s first five years, providing a foundation that promotes Somerset’s design industry and represents our members at regional, national and global level.

‘Now we need to build our membership to reflect the diversity of forward-thinking design activity in the county and will be looking to create a range of activities and events.’

He adds, ‘Everyone knows just how challenging today’s economic conditions are. To survive and stay ahead of the competition, UK business must add value – and good design from Somerset’s designers has a valuable part to play in achieving this.’