Meet the Team: Scott Darnley

Here at NCASS, there’s a passionate team working behind the scenes every day to make sure members get the most out of their membership – and we thought it was about time you got to know them!

Next, we’re speaking to Scott Darnley. Scott has worked at NCASS for 8 years as Lead Graphic Designer- creating design assets and campaigns across the NCASS website, emails and the weekly newsletter, and leading on other projects such as Independent Hospitality Week.

What first got you interested in graphic design:

It’s all I’ve ever wanted to do and what I’ve been best at, so it was an easy career path for me.

As a child I was always drawing and doodling. Then when I got a little older, I was fascinated with imagery skateboarding (customised skateboard art), BMX bikes and surfing magazines, and wanted to be the person who designed those adverts or the artwork on the skateboards.

How did it lead you to working for NCASS:

It’s funny because I moved back to Birmingham from Cornwall and got a temporary role designing NCASS training courses, but after working here for 6 months and really enjoying it, I took a permanent role and I’m still enjoying it 8 years on and counting!

What’s the most rewarding part of your job in supporting independent businesses?

My designs making members lives easier so they know what they get from their membership or quickly understand a campaign message. I think running a food business can be difficult and stressful, so when I’m designing something I’m trying to make sure the final design will save members time or make a task less overwhelming for them.

What makes NCASS members different from other food businesses?

I film and photograph our members, and what always blows me away is the passion they have for their food and craft. It’s genuinely inspiring.

What’s a design project or visual campaign you’re most proud of creating for members?

Independent Hospitality Week – I think it’s so important to support local independent businesses and showcase what local communities have to offer.  I believe the hospitality sector is what makes our villages, towns, cities and venues the places we love.

Quick-Fire Food Questions

What’s your go-to comfort food?

BURGERS! I’ve had many incredible burgers over the years, but Strip Club Street Food and Original Patty Men stand out for me.

What would you name your food truck?

I’m not sure on the name but I do have an idea… NCASS have an Emergency Catering Support where we have a network of over 6000 members who can cater to communities across the UK in emergency situations such as power cuts during storms. I’d have a converted Fire Truck so when we get a call, I jump in and get to where’s needed – an Avengers Assemble/Thunderbirds type thing!

One Top Tip for Members

Get your branding right. People walking up to your business will judge you based on the look of your business before they’ve tried your food so it’s an important part of your business.

Fun Fact about you

I’m a huge fan of Japanese culture. I’ve been practicing a samurai martial art called Iaido for 5 years. I’m also a big fan of Japanese design; Anime and I’m very slowly learning Japanese.