
Ellie Hardy, Designer
Life at Conran:
How long have you worked for Conran?
Two years.
Please describe your role
I am a designer predominantly working with print but also on branding and illustration.
What’s your favourite Conran work to date?
I like the work we have done for Whale and Dolphin Conservation.
A bit about you:
When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be a vet.
Your favourite place in the world and why?
Tough to choose just one place. Due to the recent glorious weather, Hampstead Heath women’s ponds is definitely up there.
What would your superhero power be?
Teleportation… How lazy! Or being able to fly.
What’s your favourite advertising campaign ever?
I Love the Guinness campaigns, its hard to choose just one.
What’s your favourite brand and why?
I love Nike. My housemate has about 30 pairs of Nike trainers. If only we were the same shoe size.
Something you can’t do without in your life?
Peanut butter… crunchy obviously.
Favourite movie and quote?
It’s got to be one of Jim Carrey’s from Ace Ventura Pet Detective… ‘All-righty then!’.

If you could witness any historical event, what would you want to see?
I’d love to hang out with the dinosaurs.
Your career path:
What was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had?
When I was 15 I worked in a Michelin-starred hotel doing silver service in the restaurant, which is a really tough job. I respect anyone who does it professionally… I only lasted a month.
If you weren’t doing this job. What would you be doing?
I have always wanted to own my own sweet shop.
How have your career mentors shaped you?
My Dad has always been a hard worker and an inspiration to me. My whole family are creatives who all do different things so I’m sure that’s a reason why I was inspired to be in the industry.
The creative industry:
Any tips for newcomers to the industry?
Always ask questions and speak up about what work you’d love to be involved in. Make yourself heard!
What’s the best bit of career advice you have been given?
Gain as much experience as you can, that’s how you really learn.
…and the worst? Don’t bother doing internships.
What career advice would you give to your younger self?
Don’t overthink things!
And finally… If you could sit and talk with anyone (from any time) for just one hour, who would it be and why?
I’d love to have a chat with Tom Hanks. He’s my childhood hero!


