Voxpop

While we congratulate Mary Lewis on receiving the British Design & Art Direction President’s Award from David Stuart at this year’s ceremony, in this age of team-working has the time come to reconsider awards for individual achievement? What would you replace them with?

‘There is always an individual in most industries who deserves to recognised. However, behind every successful person there is always a team and collaboration does play an essential role [in the development of a project or reputation]. Perhaps, therefore, there should be an award for the design consultancy that has made an outstanding contribution not only to the industry, but also to its staff. The creative industries, like many others, are about people working together and recognition should be given to all.’

Daljit Singh, Creative Director and Co-Founder, Digit

‘I certainly think there are teams that could be recognised for their outstanding contribution to the industry. I’d put forward advertising agency St Luke’s as a prime example, because I think it is hugely inventive about the way it has achieved creative success. In design, Pentagram might be celebrated for showing that there is a genuinely different way of running a successful creative business. Of course, I’d still like to see individuals like Mary Lewis and Michael Peters awarded because they, singlehandedly, have changed the way the design business is perceived.’

Richard Williams, managing partner, Williams Murray Hamm

‘I hate to sound conventional, but I rather like the idea of leadership recognition. However, I’d personally not welcome a lifetime achievement award – doesn’t it suggest that the nursing home beckons? But maybe the team behind the leader could be involved by using the 1990’s human resources favourite of a 360 degree assessment before any award is given. That would be fun.’

Jon Turner, Executive Creative Director, Enterprise IG

‘At the Oscars some recipients have been known to thank everybody involved – even their parents for having them. Gaffers to cameramen play a huge role in film-making, but one individual, the director, takes the heat if it all goes wrong. Individuals who strive to win inspire those around them – their day will come. True talent will always show through and be recognised for individual contribution, but great teams function on great vision and leadership.’

Glenn Tutssel, Executive Creative Director, Tutssels Enterprise IG