Neil Harris

Neil Harris’s roots can be traced back to his studies at The Royal College of Art‘s Interior Design program. Originally beginning his career as a freelance designer in the field of exhibition design, Harris progressed to Art Direction and Production Design within the commercial industry. It wasn’t long before he ventured into directing, where Harris has explored all aspects of comedy while also turning his hand to more technically demanding projects with strong narrative elements. His work has been recognized by countless international award shows including Cannes Lions, Clios, BTAA, Creative Circle Awards, to name a few. He was included in the Gunn Report of Top 25 World Commercial Directors, based on awards won in all major advertising festivals.

Neil participated in the Staying Alive Project, part of the Global Media Aids Initiative. For the initiative, he created “Shot”, one of 24 spots that were produced by agencies such as 180 Amsterdam, Cake, Lowe Worldwide, Ogilvy & Mather, Wieden + Kennedy. He has also shot spots for the UK Government / Central Office of Information (COI) for drug awareness.

Neil directed another set of Channel 4 idents for Volkswagen in Thailand out of DDB London. He followed with a spot for the charity Whizz-Kidz, which helps get disabled children into wheelchairs. He continued with his collaboration with MTV and the Staying Alive Project directing the “Being With You” commercial, which was shortlisted at Cannes Lions for a Public Health and Safety Film Lion. Other notable work includes spots for brands like Virgin Mobile, Sky, McDonald’s, Birds Eye, Argos, and John Hancock. Recently, Harris directed a campaign for The Green Party that earned gold twice at the Creative Circle Awards. He also directed a campaign for Kronenbourg, in which a scarecrow defends his beloved beer from avian threats. 

Throughout his career, Harris has always brought a spry sensibility and a refreshing directorial perspective to his work. He’s a battle tested pro with one of the best reputations in the business, and few possess the wit, sharp observational eye or consistency through the years as Neil Harris.