who we are.
meet the team
Simon Newing, MD
Simon was Focus' first employee, joining in 1996. After five years of web based adventures in other places, Simon rejoined Focus in 2004 and brought his BBC Micro (pictured) with him. Away from the PC, Simon spends most of his time hoping Watford will win a football match.
Neil Smith, Technical Director
Neil has spent many years knee deep in the development of large scale web applications - including a stint as IT Director for a divison of Kodak - helping launch an entire new range of web based services to the public and Kodak suppliers. Neil also plays guitar, piano, drums, bass guitar, the harmonica, keyboard and sings. And he's not bad on the Wii as well......
Annette Ryske, Client Services Director
With a passion for creative online solutions and a pragmatic and customer-focused approach, Annette works with our clients on benefit-driven websites and effective digital marketing campaigns. With a degree in Graphic Design and many years experience in design and marketing, there isn't much she can't handle! As long as there's plenty of tea... When she escapes from the studio, Annette loves gigs, travelling, shoes... and her cats Cheese and Sushi.
Jordana Jeffrey, Designer
Jordana left her job in Abu Dhabi back in 2011 and returned to Bristol to pursue a career related to her degree in graphic design. She joined us as our Designer where she specialises in accessibility and UX. Outside of work Jordana is all about fast cars and high heels (not together - safety first). With family to visit in Ireland and Scotland, she doesn't sit still for long!
Jon Wait, Web Developer
After completing his degree in Multimedia Computing as a mature student, Jon joined Focus in 2015 initially as a Junior Developer and has gone on to rise through the ranks, proving himself a calm, reliable and key member of the development team. Jon dedicates his time to back end Ruby on Rails development but often will get involved in all areas of a project and especially likes mentoring and supporting other members of the Focus team. When not in front of a computer Jon likes to travel, especially to Japan where he enjoys exploring the rich culture and history it has to offer.
Frances Smolinski, Project Manager
Joining Focus in 2017, Frances moved client-side after several years as a Studio Manager and Production Manager. A Jack of all trades, Frances has a degree in Marine and Natural History Photography, an eye for detail, is a voracious reader and a lover of both green and dessert teas. Whilst at Focus she's evolved from hybrid Account Manager to Project Manager and aims to continue to make herself indispensable as the right-hand woman of Client Services.
Tom Bale, Web Developer
Tom joined Focus as an intern in 2017 after completing a 12-week Web Development bootcamp. He learned a huge amount over his first three months and was subsequently offered a full-time role in the company. He has gone on to build a successful career at Focus and continues to learn more every day. During his spare time Tom likes to surf, a passion he developed whilst living in Australia, and spends a lot of time travelling the South West in search of waves.
Josh Sweet, Web Developer
Aka Joshy Dream. aka The Wasp. aka Fancy Front End Guy. With his snowballing passion for putting the user first, Dreamy has really channeled his energetic approach into Focus' front end and UI development since joining in 2018. When he's not swirling in The Matrix, Josh is happiest on a bike, up a mountain or in a tent, but failing that he will tolerate playing squash and DIY projects.
Dan Stephenson, Web Developer
With an IT background, Dan completed a 12 week intensive web development bootcamp. His knowledge continues to grow and he has been involved in multiple large projects since joining focus in May 2018. Dan is known for being the Apple fanboy, eating a solid 5 bananas a day and constantly brushing up on the latest and greatest in all things tech. When he is not 'deving' he's exercising or if he's feeling really brave you'll find him racing cars around the track.
Steph Liddington, Account Manager
Stephanie Joined Focus in May 2019 as Account Manager, she has been working with digital marketing since 2014. Since then, Steph has developed a real passion for all things digital and a great knowledge set in using digital marketing to achieve an organisation's goals - as well as business growth. When Steph isn't working, she'll be found with either a nice cup of tea or gin in hand, while spending time with her two children, hubby and friends.
Mike Newing, Director And Founder
Mike was one of the co-founders of Focus and still pops in occasionally to make sure we're all behaving ourselves. Mike spends most of his time these days in South Devon - either in his cottage or at one of the many boat yards in the area looking for that 'next purchase'.
blog.
The importance of tone of voice in design
When I’ve said something mildly amusing, my sister has a really confusing habit of stating “That was funny” - but with a poker straight face! We…
