Young guns of yesteryear

Here’s a good read. Check out this month’s issue of Yorkshire Business Insider. You’ll find an article on Propaganda’s Executive Chairman and founder, Julian Kynaston.

Julian is joined in the article by other winners of the magazine’s annual awards scheme entitled ’42 under 42′ where they select a winner from the region’s most successful and exciting entrepreneurs.

Julian won the title in 2005.

Enjoy.

Article reads:

Julian Kynaston
Was: chariman, Propaganda
Now: executive chairman, Propaganda; and founder, Illamasqua

Julian Kynaston was named Entrepreneur of the Year at our 42 under 42 awards five years ago, beating a strong shortlist that included Lee Strafford, the founder of Plusnet and a former chairman of Sheffield Wednesday.

Kynaston impressed our judging panel with the rapid growth of his marketing agency Propaganda, which he launched as a design consultancy in Leeds with £500 in 1993. In 2006 he sold 50 per cent of Propaganda to the board, but retains a major shareholding and the title of executive chairman. The agency has continued to carve out a reputation as one of the most respected agencies outside London, with a diverse range of regional and national clients and a workforce of experienced marketing professionals.

Kynaston, a former marketing director of hair beauty brand ghd, used his experience of the cosmetics market to good effect in 2008 when he launched a cosmetics brand called Illamasqua. The 43 year-old says the brand is already enjoying cult status worldwide. It has a retail presence at Debenhams and Selfridges in the UK, and in Sephora outlets across the US.

Kynaston, who lives near Huddersfield, says: “Entrepreneurialism is my strength. I am good at coming up with ideas, but have learnt the hard way that I need a great team to capitalise on those ideas.”

Posted by Richard McMurrough.