Leadership Bio

Stephen Bates

Head of Strategy & Content

Leadership Bio

Stephen Bates

Head of Strategy & Content

Adores trees, mountains and the month of May. People studier and techno enthusiast.

Stephen leads the Affinity Strategy and Marketing teams, ensuring our thinking and content are robust, clear and engaging.

Over the last 18 years he has worked as both a consultant and Marketing Director for over 20 agencies, startups and B2B service businesses, giving him a deep understanding of the marketing services landscape and a diverse range of sectors.

Stephen is a passionate believer in the power of design, experiences and organisational culture, as well as the importance of embedding strategy in day-to-day, executional activities.

Prior to Affinity, he worked with a number of leading brand, digital and retail design agencies including DesignStudio, Rosie Lee and Studio Output. Over the years, he has developed relationships with a wide range of clients and led numerous, growth-focussed design and content marketing programs.

Analytical, passionate, perfectionist.

Experience: 18+ years

  • Adidas
  • Activision
  • BBC
  • Google
  • Nike
  • Uniqlo
  • Virgin Media
  • Home Office
  • Ofsted
  • Activision