Malcolm Hayes firebrand dunedin

Malcolm embodies the role of a Design Marketing Strategist with a big passion for understanding both consumer and client needs. His blend of design thinking and human-centred design principles is evident in his commitment to creating value. His dedication to forging meaningful experiences through creativity and storytelling can be seen in his approach to consumer-specific strategies and unique tactic development. Malcolm approaches his work with the playful ingenuity and curiosity of an otter, his spirit animal, blending creative strategy with an understanding of the consumer landscape.

Malcolm's journey to Firebrand is as diverse as it is profound. His early career as a Senior Surgical Veterinary Nurse for 5+ years instilled in him a deep sense of empathy and understanding of people, invaluable in high-pressure environments. This empathy-driven approach carried through to his experiences as a corporate B2B regional sales manager within the veterinary pet food industry, before transitioning to become a professional backpacker. During this period, Malcolm embraced adventure, spending 8+ years chasing winters, including working as an L2 Snowboard Instructor, spinning cocktails and enjoying surfy summers across the globe, enriching both his personal and professional perspectives.

Upon returning to the motherland, Malcolm's academic journey saw him completing a double major in Design Thinking and Marketing Communications at the University of Otago, highlighted by a prestigious national award as Student Marketer of the Year in 2016. His 10+ years working as a multi-disciplinary designer has seen notable success working in design and marketing (among other disciplines), working within in-house teams and as a freelancer. Malcolm's journey has been a dedication to enriching customer journeys through creativity, innovation, and an understanding of human experiences.

Outside of professional life, Malcolm is deeply connected to the outdoors. Moving to Dunedin and living in St Kilda, he’s at peace when outdoors, whether hiking, skateboarding, surfing or snowboarding. His never-ending drive extends to his hobbies of strategy war gaming, mixing deep house and techno, devoted father to his indoor plants with his partner, reading philosophy and history, building Star Wars Lego, and most recently, graffiti art.