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Jye Smith and Baptiste David launch creative studio Doublestar

Creative duo Jye Smith and Baptiste David have launched their own studio, Doublestar.

Smith and David are hoping to challenge the network agency system with their business model. Doublestar will partner with digital agencies, management consultancies and independent creators to build a ‘collaborative collective’ to work on projects. Client relationships will be built on both cash arrangements and equity.

Doublestar will specialise in brand identity, design and creative strategy. It will also offer podcast production, product prototyping and motorcycle concepting.

Baptiste David and Jye Smith have launched creative studio Doublestar

Most recently, David spent four years as design director at creative agency Red Engine SCC, which entered administration in April and was bought by McCann creative chairman, Ben Lilley, weeks later. There, David worked with Smith, who was general manager and head of strategy between 2018 and 2019.

In June 2019, Smith joined WE Communications as strategy director. Smith has also worked at PwC and Weber Shandwick.

David and Smith also both consult on agency culture and transformation for Smith’s business, You’re Good, Get Better.

Smith commented on the impact COVID-19 has already had on the industry.

“The pandemic has accelerated the future of work across industries, and we exist to support the brands who are making fast decisions to grow and scale customer communications, and meet the demands of a visual-first approach,” said Smith.

“Traditional agency models and client engagements need to evolve – and we are here to partner with progressive agencies and brands alike. We live in a hyper-visual world, the industry is post-digital and creativity is more critical than ever.”

David said the new creative studio will provide him with some much-needed flexibility.

“Working in creative departments you can burn out so quickly, and traditional agencies are not equipped to help you adapt. With two kids under two, being a father will always come first – but our new engagement model with clients and partner agencies, allows the greatest flexibility to do what I love and support the ones I love at the same time,” he said.

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