James Griffiths launched marketing agency Be Creative Media this year.
After collaborating on various projects with a number of partners over the years, the Macclesfield agency was established based on a ‘growing number of recommendations’ from clients.
Now working with the likes of Elkin, Neuweg, The Heat Pump Warehouse, and KB Accounting and Finance to name a few, the agency’s mission is to empower brands to grow and thrive by combining creativity, technology, and measurable results.
From lucky breaks, best failures, to what inspired him to launch Be Creative Media, Griffiths shares all the lessons he’s learnt.
Which single daily habit or practice could you not do without?
Without a doubt, it’s my handwritten to-do list. As much as I love digital tools, having a physical list by my side is grounding. At the end of each day, I write down the key tasks for the next morning, and I’m never without my black notebook. It’s a simple habit but one that keeps me focused, especially when things get hectic. There’s something incredibly satisfying about physically crossing off tasks and staying on top of priorities.
What’s been your luckiest break?
My luckiest break came when I moved to Chester for university. During a property viewing, I met the owner of my future accommodation, who happened to also own a marketing agency in the city called Staunton Rook. That encounter turned into a mentorship and a job offer as an apprentice at his agency. The experience and hands-on learning I gained during that time laid the groundwork for my career in marketing, giving me the skills and confidence to start Be Creative Media with my partners.
What’s your best failure?
There was a time I was involved in managing a trade show for a client, which required transporting equipment from the UK to Europe. It happened right after Brexit, and new regulations caused serious delays. Despite careful planning, we faced unexpected roadblocks, and the entire event schedule had to be adjusted. This situation taught me a valuable lesson in resilience, adaptability, and quick problem-solving. It’s shaped how I lead today, keeping a calm head in unpredictable situations and always having a contingency plan.
What is the best investment you’ve ever made, either financial or time?
The best investment has been in myself, continuing my education through online courses and professional memberships like the Chartered Management Institute. Staying up-to-date with industry trends, particularly in digital marketing and AI, has allowed me to lead Be Creative Media projects with confidence. The return on that investment is reflected in the success of our clients and the growth of our agency.
Which podcast or book would you recommend others to read/listen to, and why?
I’d recommend Tales from the Dancefloor by Sacha Lord, co-founder of The Warehouse Project and Parklife festival. Sacha’s story is not only an inspiring journey from the local Manchester music scene to running two globally recognised events, but it also highlights the grit and resilience required to make business work. He’s transparent about the role luck plays in success, something I’ve experienced firsthand in my career too. His story reinforces the importance of taking risks, seizing opportunities, and staying persistent – all values that resonate deeply with me.
Sacha Lord is an inspiration, showing how you can build something impactful while contributing back to the community. At Be Creative Media, we hope to mirror that mindset, helping our clients achieve their own successes while positively influencing their own sector’s landscape.
What one piece of advice would you give your 21-year-old self?
I’d tell myself to ask more questions and not be afraid of not knowing everything. I used to think that showing uncertainty was a sign of weakness, but the reality is, that curiosity is a strength. Learning from others, building a strong network, and remaining open to feedback is what accelerates personal and professional growth. I’d also remind myself that it’s okay to feel out of depth at times, that’s where the magic happens.
Who or what has had the single biggest influence on your working life?
I’ve been fortunate to have incredible mentors throughout my career, but the single biggest influence would be my first mentor, the owner of the Chester marketing agency where I started as an apprentice. He taught me the importance of staying curious, trusting the process, and never losing sight of creativity in marketing. His belief in me at such an early stage had a lasting impact, shaping my career and eventually inspiring me to start Be Creative Media with my partners.
Tell us something about you that would surprise people.
Most people might be surprised to learn that before diving into my marketing career, I booked a one-way flight to Ibiza and spent a summer working there. While I might seem like more of an introvert now, that experience was all about getting out of my comfort zone, meeting new people, and, let’s be honest, having some fun before starting university. It was an unforgettable chapter that taught me the value of living in the moment and pushing boundaries, let’s just say.
If there was one thing you could change about your career, what would it be and why?
I would have embraced the power of asking questions earlier on. In the beginning, I thought I needed to have all the answers, but in reality, the more you ask, the more you grow. Being curious and open to learning from others could have accelerated my development even more in the early stages of my career. Now, I encourage my team to ask questions and share ideas because that’s how innovation happens.
What does success look like to you?
Success to me is two-fold. On a personal level, it’s waking up every day excited about what I do and knowing I’m making a positive impact on the businesses we work with. On a professional level, it’s about helping purpose-driven companies succeed through innovative marketing strategies. When I see our clients thrive and make a difference in their industries, that’s when I know we’re doing something right.
