Working at Red Gate

Michael Francis
Brand Manager

When did you join Red Gate?

March 2007

What was your first ever job?

A volunteer for the RSPB. I walked the fells of the Lake District surveying raptors and showing/talking to the public about Golden Eagles. Before that a paper round and also a Saturday morning job selling shoes.

Before you arrived at Red Gate what did you do?

Software marketing for a US computational science company.

What does your job involve on a day-to-day basis?

No day is the same. Continually seeking new and innovative ways to engage with our target audience.

What do you like about working in Marketing at Red Gate?

Nobody tells you what to do. You have the full support to try new things and aren't punished if they go wrong. We simply turn the negatives into positives and learn lots. You are encouraged to make the job your own and expand your horizons to engage the target audience. Meeting customers and prospects at trade shows is a real treat – I liken our stand to a bee hive – because we make a huge effort we have the buzz!

Complete the following sentence: I know everything there is to know about...

Sexing Kiwi vines.

What's your favourite book?

The Island by Victoria Hislop.

What super power do you wish you had (or have but aren't telling anyone because that's the point of being super)?

A cross between David Bellamy and David Gower.

Why did you choose Red Gate?

I was working in the same building and was intrigued by the sight of happy Red Gaters coming and going. The people always seemed on a mission and were happy and friendly. I wanted to find out more.

What are your favourite Red Gate perks?

The lunches and the cricket matches.

What's your most memorable Red Gate experience so far?

Driving a tank on our departmental day out.

What's your stance on Marmite?

Love it

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