Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
Bradley Jensen – Finalist, Entrepreneur of the Year, Black British Business Awards 2023
Graduating from BA (Hons) Marketing with Advertising Management in 2017, Bradley talks about his journey as an entrepreneur and the role his course at Leeds Beckett played in this.
Why did you choose your course at Leeds Beckett?
I chose to study Marketing with Advertising Management because of my inherent passion for creativity and content creation. From a young age, I was fascinated by the world of branding and aesthetics, and I wanted to learn more about the strategic aspects of advertising and marketing. The course offered the perfect blend of theory and practical application, allowing me to develop a strong foundation in these fields. This knowledge has been instrumental in shaping the success of Jensen & Jensen, the branding agency I co-founded with my brother.
What inspired you towards entrepreneurship?
I received excellent guidance and mentorship from my tutor, Neil Kelley. His unique approach to teaching encouraged us to infuse personality and flair into our work. His mentorship and support gave me the confidence to explore exciting opportunities, such as my consultancy role with Nike for Weiden and Kennedy's major London campaign. These experiences have shaped my perspective and inspired me to push the boundaries of creativity.
During my time at university, I chose to take a different path than my peers by launching multiple businesses instead of pursuing traditional retail or hospitality jobs. This decision allowed me to explore my entrepreneurial spirit and cultivate a mindset of innovation and problem-solving. All these experiences laid the foundation for my current role at Jensen & Jensen.
Can you tell us a bit about your current role?
I am a co-founder and branding/production expert at Jensen & Jensen. I have the privilege of leading the development and execution of impactful brand strategies for our clients. My journey to this position has been shaped by a deep passion for creativity and a relentless drive to make a meaningful impact in the branding industry.
I have had the opportunity to work with diverse clients, from luxury brands in the jewellery and real estate sectors, to global organisations seeking to enhance their brand presence.
My path to co-founding Jensen & Jensen was driven by a strong desire to create a business that not only delivers exceptional work but also champions diversity and inclusivity. As a black-owned company, we are committed to providing a platform for diverse talent and driving positive change within the industry.
We have had the privilege of working on transformative projects, shooting campaigns in Paris and abroad, and collaborating with prestigious clients such as MSDUK, Manchester City Football Club, CBRE and Burberry.
Looking ahead, I am excited about the potential of Jensen & Jensen. We remain committed to pushing the boundaries of creativity, fostering diverse perspectives, and making a lasting mark in the branding industry.
How did your course help you to get to where you are now?
My course played a crucial role in shaping my journey and preparing me for the path I am on today. It provided me with a strong foundation of knowledge and skills in the field of marketing, giving me a solid understanding of advertising principles, consumer behaviour, and strategic brand management.
The course equipped me with theoretical knowledge and encouraged practical application through various projects and assignments. It allowed me to explore my creativity and develop my ability to think strategically when it comes to branding and marketing initiatives.
The university environment also gave me a platform to build my network and experiment with entrepreneurial ideas. This mindset fostered a spirit of innovation and resourcefulness that continues to drive me forward.
What has been your biggest success so far?
My proudest achievement to date is co-founding Jensen & Jensen. Building a successful business from the ground up, especially in a highly competitive industry, is no small feat. It is a testament to the dedication, hard work, and vision that my brother and I have poured into our venture.
Beyond the business itself, I take immense pride in the impact we have made through our work. Seeing the transformation and success of our clients is incredibly rewarding.
I am also proud of our commitment to diversity and inclusion. We have made it a priority to champion underrepresented talent, both within our team and through our client collaborations.
The recognition and accolades we have received along the way have been amazing. Being nominated as finalists for the Black British Business Awards is a significant milestone that acknowledges the impact of our work and the strides we have made as a black-owned agency.
What is the significance of the Black British Business Awards (BBBA) to you and your business?
The BBBA journey has been an incredible and unexpected one for Jensen & Jensen. Discovering that we had been nominated for the BBBA was a total surprise. It was a moment of gratitude, knowing that our work had caught the attention of esteemed individuals and organisations. The nomination reaffirmed our belief in the power of our vision and the impact we strive to make. Ultimately, it's hard to launch a business during a global pandemic with zero capital investment and grow it to the point we have. Being recognised by a prestigious platform that celebrates black excellence in business is truly amazing. Considering individuals like Steven Barlett have won our category previously, it shows we are doing something right.
Winning the BBBA would be immense for our business. It would not only validate the hard work and dedication we have poured into building Jensen & Jensen but also provide us with a platform to amplify our message of diversity, inclusion, and creativity. The award would serve as a testament to our commitment to excellence and innovation in the branding and design industry. It would also hold a broader meaning for our community, showcasing the power of representation, and inspiring aspiring black entrepreneurs and professionals to pursue their dreams and break barriers.
We are truly grateful for this recognition and the doors it opens for us. It invigorates us to continue crafting extraordinary experiences, developing iconic brands, and shaping the landscape of creative entrepreneurship. The BBBA journey has been a thrilling ride, and regardless of the outcome, we stand proud, knowing that we have been part of a celebration that champions excellence and inspires greatness.
What advice would you give to a student starting their university journey?
Embrace every opportunity: Take advantage of the resources, extracurricular activities, and networking events available to you. Be proactive in seeking out internships, industry connections, and hands-on experiences.
Build a diverse skill set: Explore different disciplines, take on projects outside of your comfort zone, and develop a wide range of skills. This will make you adaptable, versatile, and attractive to employers in a competitive job market.
Network, network, network: Engage with your peers, professors, alumni, and industry professionals. Networking is key to building connections, gaining insights, and securing opportunities.
Seek guidance from mentors: Look for mentors, both within the university and in the industry. Their guidance and support can provide valuable insights, help you navigate challenges, and offer career advice based on their own experiences.
Embrace creativity and innovation: Be willing to think outside the box, challenge conventional wisdom, and explore new ideas. The world is constantly evolving, and innovation is essential for success.
Stay motivated and focused: University life can be demanding, with academic work, social activities, and personal commitments. Stay organised, manage your time effectively, and maintain a balance between your studies and personal life.
Take care of your well-being: University can be both exciting and overwhelming. Remember to prioritise self-care, maintain a healthy work-life balance, and seek support when needed. Leeds Beckett University offers a wealth of opportunities and a supportive environment. Make the most of your time there, embrace the journey, and use it as a launchpad for your future endeavours.
To start your journey with Leeds Beckett visit our website to find out more about our range of marketing degrees.
