TECH
Ambitious – “ We ’ re on the doorstep of big things to come ,” says Viral boss James Pennington .
BOHO
BY JULIE BURNISTON
Viral Effect takes on more space for growing tech team
BOOST
N ot content with being World Customer Service Index leaders in 2020 , the team at Middlesbrough ’ s Viral Effect agency is aiming for even bigger and better things this year .
Having celebrated its ninth birthday in February , the company – headed up by managing director James Pennington – has taken a five-year lease on 4,000 sq ft of additional office space in Middlesbrough ’ s Boho Zero building , which will house more staff and feature a training area .
The building on Cleveland Street , which will open its doors in May , is being created by local interior designers Cocoon & Bauer and rubber stamps Viral Effect ’ s decision to remain in the heart of the Boho area .
“ With the work going on in the town , including the regeneration of Middlehaven , we are right on the doorstep of big things to come ,” says James .
For the staff of Viral Effect , some of whom work late at night and study at college or university during the day , being able to walk to their student accommodation or to their place of education after a shift is a huge bonus . “ Where we are moving is perfect ,” says James . “ It ’ s a quick walk into town , to the university and the college .
“ We are aiming to double our workforce this year , so it makes total sense to stay here and employ the amazing people we know are out there .”
With a goal of expanding staff numbers even further to include additional designers , videographers , copywriters and more by the end of the year , Viral Effect will also retain its current Boho Four premises .
“ We plan to utilise it as a photo studio and podcast area ,” reveals James . “ We are focusing a lot more on interactive media this year and have recently taken on two videographers .”
While many companies are still reeling from the effects of the global pandemic , it may seem like a challenging time to branch out , but James has always been of the opinion that you have to push the boundaries and take a chance .
“ I won ’ t deny that after a fantastic 2019 , Covid hit us quite badly ,” he admits . “ But since the beginning of this year we have started to really fly again , with some exciting new clients coming on board .
“ It ’ s all about adapting , collaborating and changing what we believe is possible .”
Viraleffect . com
When he started Viral Effect in 2012 , James bought a pair of Star Wars trainers which he has showcased in every office as the company has moved premises and expanded , and which he has always vowed to wear once he achieves his business goals .
“ They ’ re still in the packaging and I doubt I will ever wear them as we ’ re constantly moving the goalposts ,” he laughs .
With Viral Effect currently recruiting a senior graphic designer , a copywriter and a head of operations , not to mention a team of social warriors , does James worry about taking on too much too soon , especially given the number of new digital set-ups flooding into our great region ?
“ I don ’ t worry about competition at all ,” he replied . “ I ’ ve always said that there is enough work out there for everyone and we can all learn from each other ’ s differing styles and collaborate to achieve the very best .
“ The digital sector in the Tees Valley is a thriving environment for startups and established businesses alike , and I say good luck to them ! It can only be good for the region .”
104 | Tees Business