Fusing creativity and sustainability, with Matt Hocking

Published: June 7, 2023, 9:09 p.m.

Their apt name evokes energy, activism and vitality, which Leap has in spades.\nMatt founded this eco-centred, change-making design agency in 2004. His passion for creativity, sustainability and designing for change formed Leap\u2019s foundations. Leading Leap from the front, Matt sets the course and culture for the agency and enjoys generating new and exciting relationships.\nHis effervescent enthusiasm is infectious, and his role as an ambassador for B Corp is inspirational. Leap was the first design agency in the UK to be awarded B Corp status.\nMatt is curious, values-driven and an everlasting optimist. He believes that creativity has more potential for environmental and social change than politicians, environmentalists and scientists combined.\nIn this interview we find out why. Matt:\n\n Talks about his various pursuits in business, focusing on Leap, his planet-centred design agency, touching on other companies he\u2019s set up in the past.\n\n Enlightens Alan about Goodfest, a festival that he co-founded, now in its fifth year. It curates 'creative conversations on the beach', with ecological issues at the core of its programme.\n\n Explains that he sits on the board of a range of B-Corp businesses, talking about 'Good F*cking Eco Advice', where he gives eco advice using strong language for impact.\n\n Shares his enthusiasm for everything he does, and how it gives him the energy to push forwards with his jam-packed schedule.\n\n Highlights the negative impact of digital design on the planet, and that it is important to Leap to always consider the planet as a client.\n\n Describes Leap\u2019s company culture, their ethos, financial ecosystem, how important it is to take on good staff, and their excellent staff retention rate \u2013 one staff member even has a company logo tattoo.\n\n Covers how he advises similar businesses who want to be awarded B Corp status, and how he sees B Corp status as people using business as a force for good, comparing B Corp certification to Fair Trade.\n\n Gives an insight into his future dreams for Leap and talks about the importance of not being complacent, and not being distracted by things that are outside of your values and foundations.