1. oconsultancy
21st
May 2013
To whom it may concern:
Dear Sirs,
I am delighted to provide this reference for Paul Cleverley, a close and valued colleague who worked
with me at the Merlin group of companies between 1996 and 2008 and for Freshwater plc between
2008 and 2013.
Paul is a very talented individual who possessesa unique range of skills that became essential to the
smooth delivery of functions at our integrated Marketing and Public Relations Company. Given that
Paul had qualifications in graphic design and interactive media, he was able to manage the creative
and production output of these divisions but was able to extend his influence to major event
management and a host of media support services such as video and podcast productions, internet
applications or emarketing campaigns for our demanding portfolio of blue chip companies, SME's
and government departments.
Being able to conceptualise and generate creative applications in tandem with controlling the
production output and delivery of campaigns is a rare combination of abilities. Furthermore Paul was
admired by colleagues and liked by clients and was almost always involved in key client meetings
where solutions to difficult challenges were sought. Additionally, Paul has first class presentational
skills in new business pitch situations or indeed in explaining and positioning complex strategies such
as Search Engine Optimisation or back end software requirements for online trading.
Paul's invaluable contribution to Merlin was recognised and I asked him to join the board of the
company, where he remained until our sale to Freshwater plc. I know this experience shaped Paul's
commercial understanding and gave him a first-hand insight into the challenges of running a
demanding services business profitably, whilst ensuring the staff were motivated and creatively
productive, that the facilities were leading edge and that the external brand image and market
presence was strong.
I have no hesitation in supporting Paul's application. Apart from his abilities which I have covered in
depth above, he is energetic, frequently working long hours in the delivery of a project within agreed
deadlines and is totally trustworthy and loyal. If I was starting a new business again, Paul would be
the first name on my list.
Yours Sincerely
Bruce Morris
Managing Director of Merlin Marketing and Public Relations 1995-2009
Regional Chairman of Freshwater plc 2009- current
Business & Strategic Marketing Advice
• Business planning and development
• Commercial due-diligence
• Marketing evaluation and strategy
12a Parklands, Corntown, Vale of Glamorgan CF35 5BE
Telephone: 01656 662985 Mobile: 07973 284140
Email: bruce@obm-consultancy.co.uk
www.obm-consultancy.co.uk