will buckman

Available to hire

I'm Will, a conceptual illustrator and designer originally from a small village in the northeast of Scotland. Now based in Derbyshire, I live with my young family and our dog, Ollie.

About

I’m Will, a conceptual illustrator and designer originally from a small village in the northeast of Scotland. Now based in Derbyshire, I live with my young family and our dog, Ollie.

With over 20 years of experience, my career began in the games industry before expanding into editorial, publishing, education, and advertising.

My work is known for its playful, vibrant style with a touch of quirkiness, typically created using digital media. However, I always start my illustration projects with hand-drawn sketches before refining them in either digital or traditional media.

  • 24 years' experience
  • Joined August 2025

Industry experience

  • Media & Entertainment
  • Software & Internet
  • Computers & Electronics
  • Gaming
  • Education
  • Non-Profit Organization
  • Professional Services
  • Government

Work experience· 4 roles

Head of Design · DesqJan 2011 – Present · 15 yrs 11 mos

Own design strategy and creative direction across product-led learning, simulation, and interactive platforms. Lead multidisciplinary teams spanning UX, UI, illustration, motion, and 3D, setting quality standards and design principles. Manage distributed designers and freelance partners, overseeing hiring, mentoring, and delivery. Partner closely with Product, Engineering, and senior stakeholders to shape vision, prioritisation, and roadmap decisions. Deliver award winning digital experiences for global organisations including Red Bull, Fujitsu, KPMG, PwC, BBC, Channel 4, Meta, and Goodyear. Champion emerging technologies and new ways of working, including AI assisted workflows and immersive interaction.

Freelance Illustrator · Will BuckmanJan 2010 – Present · 16 yrs 11 mos

Illustrator with experience creating original artwork for digital and print projects, including editorial, marketing, and branding materials. Skilled in developing concepts from briefs, producing high quality illustrations in a range of styles, and meeting deadlines in fast-paced environments. Proficient in tools such as Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and Procreate, Clip studio and traditional methods with strong attention to detail and a collaborative approach to working with clients and creative teams.

Senior Designer · DeleteJan 2008 – Jan 2011 · 3 yrs 1 mo

Worked across digital, brand, advertising, and motion projects in large creative teams. Contributed to concept development, visual direction, and delivery across a wide range of clients and sectors.

Designer · Ealier CareerJan 2002 – Jan 2008 · 6 yrs 1 mo

Education

BA Creative Visulisation · University of Teessides2026

Certifications and awards

Art and Design1997 – 1998
HND Software Development1999 – 2002

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