Jay Richards, the co-founder and CEO of Imagen Insights, operates from the vibrant hub of London’s Shoreditch, steering a startup that revolutionizes how agencies and brands tap into the insights of Gen Z consultants. Imagen Insights boasts an impressive clientele, including the NFL, Culture Trip, eBay, and PepsiCo, who seek its expertise for feedback on campaign ideas and market research.
Richards, recognized as a Forbes 30 Under 30 Social Entrepreneur, envisions Imagen Insights as a pivotal force shaping the future of Gen Z and influencing the operational strategies of brands worldwide, one organization at a time.
Reflecting on his journey, Richards reminisces about his formative years, marked by a penchant for unconventional paths. Despite his mischievous tendencies in school, he found inspiration from a business lecturer who recognized and nurtured his entrepreneurial spirit, igniting his realization of untapped potential.
Driven by an innate salesmanship, Richards has ventured into multiple business endeavors, with Imagen being his ninth or tenth venture. While many of his previous ventures faltered, Imagen emerged as a realization of his vision. From selling alarms to health insurance and houses, Richards embodies the role of a problem-solver, relishing the process of identifying consumer needs and showcasing how his offerings provide tailored solutions. His entrepreneurial journey is characterized by an unwavering commitment to addressing challenges and delivering value to clients.
Below are highlights of the interview conducted between World’s Leaders and Jay Richards:
Describe who you are as a person, inside and outside of the workplace.
I’m ambitious and talkative; I’m spontaneous too. If there’s a new idea on the cards, I’m keen to start working towards that goal, regardless of the obstacles that might hinder getting there. Progress at pace is how I’d describe my work ethic.
Outside of the day-to-day, I’m sports- and sleep-obsessed. I love traveling, spending quality time with family and friends, learning the piano, playing chess, and food (namely anything chicken).
Areas of interest include reading about people from all walks of life, those who have tried, and those who have failed. The best learnings are found here.
How do you continue to grow and develop as a black corporate leader? And what qualities are lacking among today’s emerging leaders?
I read a lot, and I devour podcasts day in and day out. I find myself lost in reading books about people that have nothing to do with my business, just seeing how they found success or joy in their specific field.
I’m also surrounded by black founders who have exited their businesses, and I spend a good proportion of my energy just downloading from them via osmosis.
What has made you successful? What do you value?
I would argue that I’m not successful yet, but leaning into my personality is what gives me my edge. As mentioned, I love to ask questions and talk, whether that’s on a stage in front of thousands or one-on-one with someone within a meeting. It’s about talking, and more importantly, listening, and then building a rapport based on common interests.
My mom always told me to focus on what my unique skill is, that is what has always given me my edge.
What are your responsibility as Co-founder of : Imagen Insights? What is the happiest part of your daily routine?
Selling, selling, selling. Whether that’s selling the vision to my team or investors, selling on stage while speaking at a conference, or pitching to a prospective client.
As per you, what are the most important traits to look for when hiring a new team member?
Vision, for themselves and for the business. Where do they see themselves and the business in five years? I’ve only just learned to look out for this characteristic or trait, I guess; historically, I didn’t have this mentality, and it let me down.
What are the most significant changes you’ve noticed in an organization, and how has technology influenced it?
Without technology, we wouldn’t have a business. Our image index is the most vital part of our business. Transparently, our business was living project to project until we developed our technology; since then, our margins, speed of delivery, and number of clients have increased significantly. I’d advise marketers and entrepreneurs alike not to shy away from the benefits automation and AI can have on your business; it won’t make humans unnecessary; it makes us more efficient.
What’s the greatest risk you’ve taken as a professional? Where do you see yourself after five years?
What I’m doing right now sometimes makes me sit and think about how ludicrous it is. All of my friends are in high-flying careers commanding huge salaries, and I’m here trying to build this into something that adds true value.
Imagen is my biggest risk and also my greatest joy. In five years, we will have sold the business to an ambitious partner who helps us scale this to something beyond my wildest dreams. I’m still involved in some way, but I’ve stepped away from the day-to-day, and I’m keeping busy with new ideas and ventures.
What advice would you give someone going into a leadership position for the first time?
Listen more than you talk. It’s not that deep; you aren’t a surgeon; it’s not life and death (unless you are). Just enjoy the journey and take it easy on yourself and on others.
