New C4DI member James Cutting discusses why Hull is an ideal place to build a tech business.
James has recently joined C4DI, where he hopes to scale up [T=Ø], a software solution disrupting the packaging and pre-press industry.
With 25 years of experience managing teams and leading companies in the packaging industry, James has joined forces with four other industry experts to create a digital-first solution that saves time and reduces complexity for brand owners.
“Traditionally, the industry relies heavily on manual tasks. For example, if a bottle of shampoo requires even the smallest of changes - such as an updated address - the artwork for it must be sent by the brand owner to another company in order for it to go through a lengthy process of briefing, quality checks and approvals. This could typically take days or weeks,” James tells us.
“However, with our solution, brand owners can log on, make the necessary changes and have an artwork that is print-ready and approved within minutes.”
The name [T=Ø] refers to the Big Bang, and James sees this solution as a “big bang” for his industry.
“In short, we’re giving brand owners back control of their assets and making packaging a marketing tool once again.”
[T=Ø] is founded by James and four other industry experts, including Jon Stevens, Gary Anslow, Mircea Petrescu and C4DI Chairman David Keel.
“I have known David since I was 16 and working at Hull-based printing firm Harlands. From there, I built up my skills and experience, going on to lead teams of hundreds of people, sometimes overseas, at a number of packaging and pre-press companies,” he continues.
James’ work helped establish pre-media company Sonoco Trident in the USA, as well as developing a strong sales strategy for its European sales effort. He then moved on to become Managing Director of Miller Graphics and taking the role of Senior Vice President of SGS, a global leader in packaging.
C4DI Events and Hospitality Manager Tina Swann and James Cutting
“For me, the C4DI is the perfect place for [T=Ø] to grow. I have worked in large companies for most of my career; companies who have whole teams and infrastructure dedicated to things like tech, finance and legal. When you set up on your own, you realise how many different skills are required to run a successful business. I’m hoping to network with other members and draw upon their expertise,” he adds.
“On top of this, the community aspect of C4DI is a brilliant way for startup owners like myself to talk with like-minded people who are going through similar experiences. It’s about supporting one another and sharing our knowledge.”
James hopes to bring a wealth of expertise to the building and encourages anyone to come and talk to him if they’re curious about people management, company culture, or sales and marketing:
“I have built a strong business and commercial acumen, and I’m always willing to talk to anyone who needs help.”
Watch this video interview with Tina Swann and James Cutting:
[T=Ø] is currently based in the coworking space, so if you see James around the building, do say hello. In the meantime, he can be contacted via Slack or james.cutting@timeequals0.com.
To find out more about T=0, please visit their website timeequals0.com.