A Different Path: From Stage Lights to BOLD Strategic Brands.
- Feb 19, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: May 17

Discover Matt Clutterham's unique path from the world of theatre to the forefront of brand and transformation strategy, and how his artistic vision is revolutionising the way SMEs grow and connect with their audience.
Hello there, I'm Matt,
I have a passion for helping founders, leaders, and entrepreneurs with bold strategies that leave a mark on the world. My journey, however, began far from the boardrooms and brainstorming sessions where I now thrive.
Early Inspirations: The Theatrical Foundations
As a child trailing behind my father through the world's theatres, I found my playground amongst the props and the stagecraft. My youth was a symphony of drawing, music, and creation, with the drama of the theatre as the backdrop. This world of performance and spectacle led me to London, where I cut my professional teeth as a lighting trainee for the dazzling 'Starlight Express.'
The Allure of Lighting: A Blend of Art and Science
Lighting, with its perfect blend of artistry and technical mastery, quickly became my focus. I spent years honing my craft on major productions, both in London's West End and on international tours, before taking the leap to become a Lighting Designer.
The True Fascination: Storytelling and Emotional Connection
It wasn't the limelight or the allure of show business that captivated me. Instead, I was fascinated by the power of storytelling, the emotional bonds formed between stage and audience, and the precise control we had over the narrative's direction. The joy and pathos we could conjure with a spotlight became my trademark.
Transitioning to a New Stage: Brand and Experiential Events
My expertise found a new home in the world of brand and experiential events. The skills I had nurtured in the theatre—storytelling, neuroscience, psychological influence—were now being employed to elevate brands and create memorable live experiences.
A Portfolio of Influence: Launching Over 500 Brands
Over the past two decades, I've been at the helm of over 500 brand and product launches, working with giants like Sony, EE, Vauxhall, QatarGAS, and Samsung. My work has shaped experiences for British GQ, Selfridges, Deloitte, Bacardi, and Motorola, forging connections between ideas and audiences worldwide.
The Search for Greater Impact: My 'Why'
Despite the excitement and fulfillment of my career, I craved more—I wanted to leverage my skills for a greater cause. I believe that the true architects of change are not governments or policies but businesses and the visionaries who lead them.
The Pivot to Brand and Transformation Strategy
So, I embarked on a quest to redefine my contributions. The event world shutting down completely in 2020 provided the perfect opportunity to begin a new mission in the world of brand and transformation strategy. I devoured knowledge, sought mentorship, and applied my theatrical expertise to the art of brand building.
The Power of a Diverse Toolbox: Applying Theatrical Expertise to Brand Strategy
My unique path has equipped me with an unusual set of tools—storytelling, connection, influence, attention, focus, and relationships. These tools have proven invaluable in crafting bold strategies for the businesses I work with.
Mentors and Teachers: Learning from the Best
I've been fortunate to learn from renowned figures in the branding world, like Stephen Houraghan, Matt Davies, Marty Neumeier, Steven Bartlett, and Jacob Cass. Their wisdom has helped shape my approach and enhance the services I offer.
Making Real Differences: The Impact of My Work
The businesses and individuals I've partnered with have seen tangible benefits from my distinctive blend of experience and skills. From internal culture shifts to bottom-line growth, my impact extends beyond the corporate to the global community.

Matt Clutterham - Head of Brand Transformation at Q Branch.
Brand and experience strategist at Q Branch, Matt has spent 25 years helping businesses, connect with their audiences, build bold brands that people choose, trust and remember. Matt is well know for a bold psychology and real world approach with the likes of Bacardi, Sony, EE, GQ magazine and more.
Email Me: matt@qbranch.consulting





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