Celebrating James’s Journey at Fresh Egg
By Philippa Barnard|15 Apr 2025
We start the week with some truly brilliant news. We’re celebrating a huge milestone in the career of someone who’s been on an incredible journey with Fresh Egg — James Wardleworth, who has just been promoted to SEO Director! This is more than just a promotion. It’s a full-circle moment that speaks to everything we value as a business: growth, opportunity, and the incredible people who make up our team.
The Beginning – James Joins Fresh Egg (2014)
Back in September 2014, we invested in a comprehensive apprenticeship scheme as we looked to invest in the next generation of digital talent. Among the first three fresh-faced apprentices was James, an 18-year-old straight out of college, ready to dive headfirst into the world of digital marketing.
From day one, James brought curiosity, energy, and a willingness to learn—and it wasn’t long before he was making his mark. During his first year, James rotated across multiple departments, gaining exposure to a variety of disciplines, including SEO, paid search, and Analytics. Each rotation gave each apprentice an understanding and exposure to each discipline. It was during those rotations that James found his calling in SEO.
A young James starting his journey with us.
"It's been a real journey, considering I had zero digital knowledge when starting here. I've learnt SO much along the way and have been incredibly fortunate to work with such a knowledgeable, helpful and reliable team to support that journey. I'm excited to continue developing in the new role, adapting, learning and supporting our teams and clients to thrive as our industry continues to evolve at what feels like the most rapid pace it ever has done."
James Wardleworth, SEO Director
Growth Over the Years
Post-apprenticeship, James joined the SEO team, taking a junior position. In his first full-time role, he would undertake a vast learning program, building the skills he would need to excel. In those 10 years, James has played a key role in delivering standout SEO strategies for various clients. From technical audits to content-led campaigns, James has helped businesses, large and small, improve visibility in Google and Bing. Latterly, James has been instrumental in building our internal SEO frameworks, improving standards, and championing a collaborative team culture.
A younger James, pre-tattoos and blue hair!
The Big News – Promotion to SEO Director
After a decade of hard work, evolution, and impact, we’re proud to officially announce James’s promotion to SEO Director.
His performance throughout the promotion process only reinforced what we already knew — James has grown in leaps and bounds and is more than ready to take this step. It’s a recognition of not just where he is, but of everything he’s contributed to Fresh Egg and our clients along the way.
"I couldn't be prouder of James! It has been so rewarding to see him join us as a young apprentice and watch him grow personally and professionally over the last 10 years. He is an integral part of our team and works hard to drive the best results possible for his clients. It's a pleasure to have him as part of our team, and having been here for so long, he is a well-loved member of the Fresh Egg family."
Pip Barnard, Co-Founder
What’s Next for James in This Role
As SEO Director, James will be:
- Leading major SEO campaigns for our clients
- Shaping strategic pitches and driving new business
- Continuing to build and refine our SEO approach
- Being a key voice in the future direction of our SEO offering
A Big Thank You
James, from us all — thank you! It’s been a joy watching you grow over the past 10 years (and somehow manage to stay cooler than all of us).
From apprentice to SEO Director, from learner to leader — your journey is what our culture is all about.
Interested in growing your digital career with us? See our open roles and join our incredibly talented team.