Getting to know... Sarah Dear

In a feature looking at the person behind the business profile, Sarah Dear, chief executive of creative agency Born Ugly, talks about her route into the sector, her pride at the business’ growth and why the North is such a great place to live and work.

We know you as the chief executive of Born Ugly, but who is the person behind the title? Tell us a little about what makes you tick…

I’m a serial problem solver, who thrives on working with like-minded people.

I’m a bit of a nerd who loves diving into complex industries. 

Boredom is my biggest enemy, which is why the creative industry suits me so well. 

There’s always something fresh happening that keeps me excited and on my toes.

Did you always want to work in the creative industry?

Like many others, I didn’t know about the creative industry when I was growing up.

At school, I was passionate about art, but my dad made me focus on academic subjects.

It wasn’t until I stumbled into the creative field, while doing a temporary job, that I knew it existed.

What’s the best bit about your job? And the worst?

I love my job because I get to work with motivated, creative people who love what they do. 

But if I could lose the admin side, I would love my job that little bit more!

What do you consider to be your greatest achievement?

My greatest achievement at work is getting Born Ugly off the ground.

It’s not easy to start a new business, and the fact we’re still succeeding is a testament to the hard work of everyone involved. 

Outside of work, my other biggest achievement is raising my two children. 

Balancing a full-time job while bringing up kids isn’t easy, but it’s been incredibly rewarding.

How do you relax outside of work?

I stay active through running and walking my golden doodle Henry. 

I love to cook and make a mean batch of meatballs.

I also enjoy reading and writing; it helps me unwind and disconnect.

What makes the North such a great place to live and work?

The North offers the best of both worlds. 

We have incredible cities, each with their own rich history and culture. 

The countryside is stunning and the creativity is unmatched. 

Leeds and the North East aren’t trying to be anywhere else, they're carving their own creative identity. 

Grounded, fearless and full of character, it’s a place where independent thinking thrives and bold ideas come to life. 

Tell us something about you we didn’t know…

My dad was a doctor, so I ended up going to 14 different schools. 

I think that’s partially why I’ve stayed in the same place for so long. 

I was tired of being the new girl.

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