Drew Charsley
About Me
London-based creative with 20+ years’ experience in advertising and behaviour-change communications across financial services, B2B & B2C.
My creative process balances clarity of thought with hands-on execution. This means I can move comfortably between big-picture conceptual thinking and detailed, crafted production.
Whether leading a team or working in one, I bring strategic insight and creative impact to every project.
Education
Anglia Ruskin University 1998
BA Hons: Illustration & Visual Communication
Practice-led degree that develops strong visual thinking, storytelling and professional illustration skills through studio projects and industry-focused briefs. Students work across a range of media, including drawing, print, animation and digital processes, while building a distinctive portfolio and creative voice. With expert tutor support, excellent facilities and opportunities to exhibit work, the course prepares graduates for careers across illustration and visual communication.
Loughborough College of Art 1994
Art & Design Foundation
A one-year programme designed to develop creative skills, confidence and critical thinking before progressing to a specialist degree. Students explore a broad range of disciplines including fine art, visual communication and 3D design before focusing on a chosen pathway and completing a final project. The course provides a strong practical and conceptual grounding for undergraduate study in art and design.
Raindance Film School 2010
Film Director’s Foundation
Intensive programme designed to introduce aspiring directors to the creative and practical fundamentals of filmmaking. Students develop core skills in visual storytelling, directing actors, camera language and editing through hands-on projects and collaborative exercises. The course provides a strong foundation for further film study or independent filmmaking, with a clear focus on developing a confident directorial voice.
Work & Experience
Freelance 01/01/2026
Freelance Senior Art Director
Freelance Senior Art Director Providing design and production across B2B and B2C sectors, I work with senior leaders and business owners to ensure their design function helps achieve their business objectives. Projects include: – Digital animation campaign for a global investment bank – Branding and advertising for a wealth management business – Design and advertising for a structural engineering consultancy
MindGym 01/01/2021 - 01/01/2024
Design Manager
Initially contracted for two months, this role was extended for three years. I created, pitched and led creative campaigns combining design and behavioural science for FTSE100 clients, driving large-scale engagement and cultural change. – Created and directed comms campaigns, pitches and RFPs – Tripled the size of the creative department through recruitment – Championed new design processes and creative products inc. generative AI, film, animation and podcasts
Freelance 08/01/2019 - 12/01/2020
Freelance Senior Art Director
Design and Art Direction for advertising and strategic comms agencies in the finance, information operations and construction sectors. Delivered advertising, social, branding and printed collateral within teams and as a self-managed designer.
Verbalisation 11/01/2016 - 08/01/2019
Creative Director
As Creative Director I took ownership of all creative work for our global network of clients, building strong client relationships and contributing to business development. I led and mentored a team of 10 staff and freelancers, championing creative growth and collaboration.
Verbalisation 03/01/2014 - 11/01/2016
Senior Art Director
Merging my advertising experience with behavioural science, I helped craft campaigns that guided audience behaviour in line with client objectives, from FTSE100 clients to government and NGO accounts. As a Senior Creative, I learnt valuable lessons about nurturing and developing the creativity of our team.
Teamspirit 09/01/2006 - 03/01/2014
Senior Designer > Art Director
Progressed from Senior Designer to Art Director in this leading FS agency. Delivered integrated advertising creative across print, film, animation and digital. Pitched and presented to C-Suite clients. Recruited and mentored junior creative staff.