Five questions for creatives

Murad Cumhur

Murad Cumhur is a Turkish-born marketing, customer relations and brand management specialist and photographer who has relocated to the UK with his family. Murad has ten year’s experience in digital marketing, international business development and exhibition management. He has two graduate degrees — one in public relations and marketing, and the second in international trade. After finishing university he served as Lieutenant and Section Commander in the Armed Force before leaving to work in the construction and chemicals sectors on business development, building brand awareness and raising company profiles.

How did you get into the creative industry, and was there a defining point in your career that led you on that path?

I have always loved taking photos, even since I was a little kid. Faculty of Communication Sciences was my first choice of course during the process of applying for university education. At the University, communication arts, design programs and photography were my major.

Is there anything you would change in your current career and if so why?

To be honest, I came to England a few months ago and just started getting used to the way of life here. Nevertheless, I feel lucky to have had experience in different cultures therefore, it is proving to be a smooth transition for me. I’m currently working as a digital marketing specialist, but my passion has always been photography.

Where do you see yourself, and your career in five years’ time?

In five years, I would like to see myself providing design and photography services along with digital marketing and communication services. I would also like to be working on the communication design which is my area of expertise.

Are there any rules or habits that help you do your job more efficiently?

I like being extremely organised therefore, prefer detailed planning prior to any project in order to avoid surprises and/or overcome them efficiently if faced with.

What tips would you give to anybody who is looking to get started in the creative industry?

My main advice to people who want to go into this business sector is to focus on self-development on an ongoing basis and be open to new technologies. In my experience, it is also important to be able to set aside your ego and sometimes start from scratch.