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CLS Connections - Art & Design Panel Guests 26-27

Wed October 28, 2026
Michael Sadler LG10

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Zane Alley, He/Him

PGC in Marketing and Digital Strategy, Leeds Beckett University (2023/2024)

Job Title: Marketing & Communications Manager: Leeds University Union

What do you do on a day-to-day basis? Lead a multidisciplinary internal-agency function spanning strategic marketing, project management, graphic design, communications, social media, digital content, website, email, internal communications and student content resources, supporting nine organisational departments and their income-generation, engagement and reputation priorities. I lead on all major cross-organisation projects through insight, strategic planning, integrated delivery and evaluation.

What is the one piece of advice you wish someone had given you when you were a student? Don't discount the social aspects of Uni life - this is where you build some of the most meaningful friendships and networks.

Ask me about:

  • Personal Branding
  • Project Management
  • Stakeholder Management

Social Media: 
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/valentine-alley-522bb05b/

Photo of Alice Clayden making artwork on the floor

Alice Clayden, She/Her

BA Textile Design, University of Leeds

Tob title: Pyramid - Creative Programme Coordinator

Job description: The development of bespoke creative pathways for Pyramid members, which are flexible and highly personalised for the individual. Coordinating the Pyramid Studio/Office timetable, ensuring that it is adaptable and works for all. Coordinate the recruitment of new freelance artist facilitators and to match them up with relevant projects. Respond to and monitor project proposals from artists. Coordinate project outcomes ie professional photography of finished work, filming of sharing's etc. Lead on project planning and project evaluations with artist facilitators. Coordinate and ensure the smooth running of one off grant funded projects.

My top tip:  Meet people, try new things and hang out in the library!

Three things to ask me:
1. Inclusive Arts Practice
2. Support/care work
3. Artist Studios

Social media:
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://pyramid.org.uk/

 

Hannah ForrestHannah Forrest, She/Her

Leeds Beckett. MA Information and graphic design, University of Leeds

Tob title: Graphic Design Lead, Leeds University Union

What do you do on a day-to-day basis? Every day is varied, but I pick up all graphics across the union from Menus, socials, signage, art direction and consulting on brand ideas and development

What is the one piece of advice you wish someone had given you when you were a student? Doors won't open for you unless you knock on them.

Ask me about:

  • working in packaging and print
  • being a designer with dyslexia and how it is actually a superpower
  •  working at a university union /In house designer on your own

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannah-f-9ab465145/ 

Saba SiddiquiSaba Siddiqui, She/Her

BA Art & Design, University of Leeds (2024)

Job title: I am mostly freelance. I have a casual role at Henry Moore Institute as invigilator. I mostly run workshops for socially engaged projects, curate exhibitions, go on residencies

What do you do on a day-to-day basis? I might be prepping or running a workshop, then applying for open calls, residencies, networking, researching and making for my own arts practice.

What is the one piece of advice you wish someone had given you when you were a student? Use the university's archives more!

Ask me about:

  • Running workshops
  • Where to find opportunities
Social Media:
@sabasiddiqui_art


Bach Singh, He/Him

BA Art & Design, University of Leeds (2015)

Tob title: Printmaking Technician, School of Design, University of Leeds and artist

Photo of Bach Singh standing in front of his artworkJob description: I lead the delivery of undergraduate and postgraduate teaching in printmaking through workshops, demonstrations, and individual guidance. I collaborate with academic staff to design and adapt teaching resources that align with course modules and learning outcomes. Provide technical expertise across a range of processes (etching, relief, lithography, screen printing, and hybrid digital/traditional methods). I maintain and manage specialist studios, ensuring compliance with health, safety, and risk assessment procedures. I contribute to the development of student research projects, offering technical advice and practical solutions. I champion sustainability in workshop practice and encourage responsible material use.

My top tip:  network as much as you can

Things to ask me about: 

  • connecting with studios
  • artist residencies
  • exhibitions

Social media: 

Website: www.bigeasyart.co.uk  
Instagram: @big_easy_art

Is there anything else you would like students to know before meeting you?
Don't take me too seriously!