Realise ECD Don Smith leaves to launch 'invention and disruption' business
Realise executive creative director Don Smith has left the agency after eight years to start his own business for creative inventive ideas.
Don Smith
The new shop will be named One Hundred Flowers, which he described as "an invention and disruption practice."
Smith, who moved into Realise when it was solely based in Edinburgh, has been with the company throughout its growth into London and acquisition by St Ives Group. He previously worked for creative agencies such as The Leith Agency and The Union and won awards with The Drum, The Clios and D&AD during his career.
It is understood that his final day at the agency will be today.
In a comment to The Drum, Smith described his time and achievements through the growth of Realise as "overwhelming".
He added: "We've built one of the most successful agencies in the UK. All from our base in Scotland. We've won international business and awards. And we've had nothing but fun doing it. But it's time for me to challenge myself again and transfer my 'creative' mind into a new environment."
Of his new business, he explained: "As an inventor (Invention and Disruption Consultant to be professional) I hope to prove that there is a valuable and strategic way to apply 'creative' thinking to far wider societal needs. Invention and innovation are more critical than ever in designing a better world. Hopefully I can play a valuable part in that world."
Below is a video interview with Smith with The Drum when he first joined Realise from The Union.