Bristol-based international copywriting consultancy Stratton Craig has ushered in a new era with the departure of its CEO and his replacement with a homegrown appointment .
Having bought Stratton Craig in 2008, CEO Darren Clare transformed it from a one-employee company with a £150,000 annual turnover to a thriving 20-plus team, generating £2.4m annually and working with global clients such as Mitsubishi, Kaspersky and De Beers Group. 
His first appointment 15 years ago was Nina Whittaker, who joined as a graduate account executive.
Nina, pictured with Darren, has now become Stratton Craig’s CEO, with Darren stepping down to spend more time with his family.
Originally formed in 1997, the firm has established itself as a trusted partner for businesses seeking exceptional written communications.
Its core services include ESG and annual reporting, content strategy, tone of voice development and training, SEO consultancy and copywriting for ongoing content programmes.
Last year Darren played a pivotal role in guiding the business through its sale and integration into the Positive Change Group (PCG), a global stakeholder advisory and engagement group of specialist agencies united by their commitment to positive impact and leadership.
Darren said: “From the outset, my vision was to create a communications business that was truly a first of its kind, combining the intellectual prowess of The Economist with the agility and client-centricity of Virgin. 
“And we’ve done exactly that. But I’m most proud of the remarkable culture we’ve built. It’s a place where everyone is valued and contributes to our collective success.
“We celebrate achievements and we support each other through challenges.”
Darren said he was leaving Stratton Craig in a strong position with “robust financials, a diverse and loyal global client base, a seasoned management team and a talented pool of copywriters, strategists, SEO experts and project managers”.
Nina said her career trajectory from graduate account executive to CEO exemplified the agency’s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent.
Over the past 15 years, she has been instrumental in shaping Stratton Craig’s service offerings and driving the growth of key client relationships, including adding to the agency’s roster of international blue-chips.
Having helped build the agency’s team and company culture, she said her fresh perspective would bring new opportunities and strategies to keep Stratton Craig at the forefront of the communications industry.
“I feel honoured and excited to lead Stratton Craig into this next chapter,” she added.
“We have a brilliant team in place and a bright future. I’m ready to hit the ground running, collaborating with my colleagues at Stratton Craig and the Positive Change Group to deliver exceptional results for our clients across the globe.
“I’d like to thank Darren for his leadership over the years and the strong foundation he has built at Stratton Craig.
“I’ll work hard to ensure the unique, dynamic and empowering culture Darren so meticulously cultivated continues to be a significant cornerstone of our success.”
