Behind the Scenes at Brand Strutt: 20 Years of Design, Branding and Strategy Excellence

At the heart of every impactful brand lies a visionary, and for over 25 years, Karen Strutt has been that guiding force for countless businesses. With an impressive career spanning leadership roles at Wolff Olins and as Head of Creative at Deloitte’s Centre of Excellence, Karen has become synonymous with turning bold ideas into meaningful, strategic growth.

Karen’s approach to branding is deeply personal. She sees a brand as far more than just a logo or a tagline—it’s an intricate tapestry of design, messaging, and experience that tells a story and creates connections. Her work is grounded in the belief that every brand has a unique purpose waiting to be unlocked, and her mission is to uncover and amplify that essence.

A Personal Approach to Strategic Branding

Karen begins every project by immersing herself in her client’s vision. She takes the time to understand not just their goals but also the nuances of their industry and the aspirations of their audience. This hands-on, thoughtful approach allows her to craft brands that are as authentic as they are impactful.

For Karen, strategy is the backbone of every successful brand. Her expertise lies in positioning businesses with clarity, crafting compelling narratives, and developing a tone of voice that resonates deeply. From there, she brings the vision to life through meticulous design and thoughtful execution. Whether she’s creating a standout website, designing memorable packaging, or defining brand guidelines, Karen ensures that every element works in harmony.

A Portfolio of Iconic Work

Over the years, Karen has partnered with some of the world’s most renowned brands, including Itsu, Adidas, Virgin, Rolls-Royce, and British Airways. She’s also played a pivotal role in crafting the visual identity for the London 2012 Olympics and developing campaigns for the GREAT Britain initiative.

What makes Karen’s work so impactful is her ability to balance timeless principles with innovative thinking. Her designs are modern yet enduring, ensuring that the brands she creates are not only relevant today but also poised for long-term success.

More Than Design: A Comprehensive Skillset

Karen’s expertise extends far beyond aesthetics. She’s a strategist, a storyteller, and an implementer. Her work encompasses every aspect of branding, from naming and messaging to digital campaigns and immersive experiences. She also excels at helping businesses launch their refreshed identities with maximum impact, offering ongoing support to ensure their success.

For Karen, it’s not just about creating beautiful designs; it’s about building brands that empower businesses to achieve their goals. Whether she’s training a team on how to use their new brand assets or creating marketing materials that align seamlessly with a refreshed identity, Karen’s work is always grounded in practicality and purpose.

Award-Winning Recognition

Karen’s dedication to excellence has earned her industry-wide recognition. She’s been honoured with awards like the Gold and Grand Prix at the DBA Design Effectiveness Awards and has received accolades from D&AD for her work. These achievements reflect her commitment to delivering results that matter.

Why Karen’s Approach Stands Out

In a crowded market, where businesses are constantly vying for attention, Karen’s work stands apart because of its authenticity and strategic depth. She doesn’t just create brands; she builds lasting legacies for her clients.

If you’re ready to elevate your brand and work with someone who truly understands the art and science of branding, Karen Strutt is the partner you need. Behind every project she undertakes is a commitment to excellence and a passion for creating brands that leave a lasting impact.