Member Spotlight: Ash Durrant, Account Director – Jist Studios

Each week we get to know one of our members slightly better. This week we find out more about Ash Durrant, Account Director – Jist Studios…

1. Favourite quote or saying?

“Celebrate the dumb question.” If in doubt, the question ain’t dumb at all. Hands down the best bit of advice I’ve been given.

2. Career highlight?

Shooting with Nile Rodgers on the AMEX Backed By campaign. It was an incredibly successful campaign for a brand I really admire. Plus it was a DREAM to work with one of the biggest legends in the music industry.

3. Why do you love pro-manchester?

Being a Londoner and a newbie to pro-manchester I’m excited to connect with the vast network of talented businesses in the North West. I’m really looking forward to meeting new people who are excited about what they do. And as soon as lockdown is over… the coffee and beer that awaits!

4. What are you reading at the moment?

Prepare yourselves…

The Etymologicon: A Circular Stroll Through the Hidden Connections of the English Language – Mark Forsyth

5. What are you watching at the moment?

Best movie I’ve seen in a long time was Luce. Not for everyone, but whether you like it or not, it challenges morality no matter who you are. Provocative brain fodder.

6. Favourite meeting place in Manchester?

And the winner is… Ezra & Gil – open space, effortless interior, tasty poke bowls and infectious buzz. Mint.

7. Favourite lockdown activity?

Thank god for me ol’ bike – only got used once pre-lockdown. Now it’s racked up MILES!

8. Most creative meal that you cook?

I’m half Indian – so if I really want to show off, I’m told my chicken biryani is a bit of a creative showstopper. It’s all about the holy trinity of quality ingredients, balance of flavour and a secret family recipe…

9. Most creative thing you’ve seen on a video call during the lockdown?

Funny. We actually created a video call social post for Weetabix during lockdown where our lycra clad Creative Director Jon got on his exercise bike and channelled his inner hipster to lighten the mood.

10. Most mundane task you’ve completed since being in lockdown?

To be honest, I don’t think lockdown made a difference to the mundane – that’s just life. Sometimes you just gotta get on with the small stuff. Means you then really enjoy the good stuff, right?!

11. Do you write a blog that you’d like us to share?

No blog I’m afraid. I’d worry about not keeping it up with everything else. Nothing worse than a stale blog eh?

12. What are you looking forward to doing again the most after lockdown?

DANCING!!! (with other people I mean, not just in my living room with the dog). I am itching to get ma’ groove on. Don’t care if I look like a fool either. It’s the BEST therapy.