Ean Faragher

How we design, develop and use technology has an impact on its effectiveness and whether it is a positive or negative. Digital technology is often seen as confusing and illogical, even for "digital natives".

I firmly believe in the ethical use of digital tools to market and promote businesses. Whilst it may be cliché I think digital marketing and education have the ability to level a previously unequal playing field.

My focus is to remove the confusion and difficulty of using and implementing digital tools within business to enable everyone to benefit from the advantages it offers.

Kranzberg's first law of technology: Technology is neither good nor bad; nor is it neutral.

In Education

Since 2018 I have been working as a work-based trainer for digital marketing apprentices working in SMEs. This has given the business the opportunity to have digital marketing skills "in-house" and gives the apprentice a first foot-hold in a digital career.

The problems with diversity in STEM industries is well known so I have also been part of the recruitment for learners, engaging with this process to ensure we were recruiting apprentices from a diverse candidate pool.

More recently I have developed and delivered Essential Digital Skills courses, delivered as part of the Governments national skills strategy to improve adult basic skills. Over 50% of people in the UK workforce lack necessary digital skills and could potentially be left behind - this strategy aims to change that.

I have also contributed to the development of resources for the Education and Training Foundation's (ETF) Enhance platform. The ETF use the platform to support teachers and trainers use Educational Technology (EdTech) in their delivery, and encourages innovation in the EdTech sector.

In Business

Before becoming a trainer I was Operations Director of a digital agency, starting out as an online editor and researcher before the business pivoted to become a digital agency, serving a range of clients from sole-traders to global blue chip companies.

In my time there I was responsible for interpeting and delivering client briefs (inlcuding marketing production activities) but also for advising where technology (in particular digital marketing) could be used to improve opportunities and ROI for clients.

Third Sector

I volunteer for a local charity and am responsible for the technology and digital elements of the organisation

I have always worked to highlight the power of digital in the third sector, encouraging various businesses to engage with their local charitable organisations without using it as PR opportunity.

When working agency side I have ensured support for key charities and also supported the need for a "charitable rate" where work couldn't be donated.