Clive Allen is a brand strategist and creative leader with over three decades of experience helping organisations define, express and strengthen their identities. Beginning his career in the vibrant world of northern advertising, Clive worked across several prominent agencies where he refined both his strategic thinking and creative expertise. In the early 1990s, he took the bold step of founding Allen, a brand consultancy that has continued to thrive for more than 30 years.

From Creative Foundations to Strategic Leadership

Clive’s professional journey combines formal creative training with an instinctive understanding of how design influences perception and performance. Over the course of his career, he has partnered with a diverse portfolio of clients – from leading fashion and textile brands to firms in financial services, clean technology, property development and recruitment. This breadth of experience has given him rare insight into how brand strategy adapts across sectors and market conditions.

At the heart of Clive’s approach lies the belief that powerful brands are built on the seamless integration of strategy and creativity. He brings analytical rigour to every engagement, ensuring that creative expression is not simply beautiful but purposeful – a reflection of the organisation’s values, culture and market position.

Crafting Brands That Endure

Specialising in brand creation and development, Clive recognises it as one of the most expressive elements of visual communication. His design philosophy is grounded in clarity, authenticity and emotional resonance – principles that ensure every brand he touches stands out and stands the test of time.

Clive approaches each project as a strategic thinker first. He goes beyond surface-level aesthetics to uncover the core truths that define a brand’s authenticity. Through this, he identifies the touchpoints that genuinely engage audiences and strengthen connection, ensuring that every element of a brand identity aligns with its purpose and promise. 

Mentorship and Creative Development

Beyond his commercial work, Clive is committed to supporting the next generation of creative professionals. As a King’s Trust mentor, he shares his expertise with emerging entrepreneurs and designers, helping them navigate the challenges of building and sustaining a creative career. His mentoring work reflects his belief that creativity flourishes through collaboration, curiosity and continuous learning.

This commitment to development mirrors the ethos that has guided his own career – the idea that creativity and strategy are not opposing forces but complementary disciplines that, when aligned, drive enduring success.

Fractional Leadership for Modern Organisations

Today, Clive continues to shape brand thinking at a senior level as a Fractional Chief Brand Officer. In this role, he provides organisations with executive-level strategic brand leadership without the long-term commitment of a full-time hire. His fractional model allows him to deliver high-impact insight and direction to multiple clients, guiding them through transformation, repositioning and growth.

Working closely with leadership teams, he helps businesses refine their brand purpose, articulate their market positioning and develop cohesive communication frameworks that drive both internal alignment and external recognition. His calm, collaborative approach and wealth of experience make him a trusted partner for organisations seeking to elevate their presence and performance.

What Defines His Work

Strategic Creativity:

Clive unites strategic thinking with creative excellence, ensuring every decision supports both brand integrity and business objectives.

Cross-Sector Expertise:

With clients spanning fashion, finance, technology and property, Clive brings adaptable insight and a broad commercial perspective to every engagement.

Mentorship and Development:

As a King’s Trust mentor, he fosters growth, confidence and innovation among emerging creative talent.

Fractional Impact:

As a Fractional Chief Brand Officer, he delivers senior-level expertise flexibly, offering clarity, consistency and creative leadership to dynamic organisations.

Conclusion – Building Brands with Purpose and Precision

Clive Allen is more than a creative consultant; he is a strategic partner who helps organisations define who they are and what they stand for. Combining three decades of experience with an enduring passion for design and communication, he builds brands that are both authentic and enduring. Whether guiding a start-up towards its first identity or refining a mature brand’s positioning, Clive brings insight, integrity and imagination to every project – qualities that continue to shape his reputation as a trusted leader in modern brand strategy.