THE PEOPLE

Our Culture

Outrankers make the culture. The culture makes Outrank.

BFOYW 1

Where Did It All Begin?

Powered by people, driven by culture — that’s Outrank.

Founded in the heart of Teesside, Outrank began with a simple but powerful mission: to help businesses grow through search. But we quickly realised our biggest strength wasn’t just our marketing strategies or technical skills, it was the people around us. From day one, we’ve built our business on collaboration, trust, and shared purpose. Six years later, that ethos remains the same.

We’ve grown, evolved, and transformed into one of the most respected agencies in the UK, but we’ve never lost sight of what matters most: our team.

“The positive energy that is Outrank!” – Fiona, Search Director

Where Did It All Begin?

Founded in the heart of Teesside, Outrank began with a simple but powerful mission: to help businesses grow through search. But we quickly realised our biggest strength wasn’t just our marketing strategies or technical skills, it was the people around us. From day one, we’ve built our business on collaboration, trust, and shared purpose. Six years later, that ethos remains the same.

We’ve grown, evolved, and transformed into one of the most respected agencies in the UK, but we’ve never lost sight of what matters most: our team.

“The culture/personality of the business is fantastic and makes it for me.” – Francesca, Operations Director

What Makes Our Culture Different?

It’s easy to say you’ve got a “great culture.” For us, it’s more than free breakfast or a pool table (although those are nice too). Our culture is built on openness, kindness, and an honest desire to see one another succeed. It’s the reason we’ve been recognised as one of The Sunday Times Best Places to Work.

We’re not about hierarchy or ego, every voice matters. Whether you’re new to the team or you’ve been here from the beginning, your opinion is valued. And that’s not just a feel-good phrase, it’s how we work. From Monday morning meetings to project planning sessions, everyone plays a part.

“Love the energy, the music and the relaxed environment where we all support each other.” – Adeel, Senior Sales Executive

Why the Team Means Everything

We say it often because it’s true: Outrank wouldn’t exist without our people. Every line of code, every campaign launch, every client success, it all comes down to the team. We support each other, challenge each other, and celebrate every win, big or small.

That’s why we invest in wellbeing and personal development. We know that when our team feels good, they do good work. Our focus on self-care isn’t a side note; it’s a priority. Whether that’s offering time out for mental health, supporting flexible working, or just knowing when someone needs a check-in, we’ve built a place where people come first.

You can’t put a price on positive culture – and we mean that.

“I love the positive vibes of the office.” – Adam Hill, Senior Sales Executive

Meet Lucy – Our Culture Queen

At Outrank, culture isn’t left to chance, it’s someone’s full-time job. That someone is Lucy, our dedicated Culture Manager, and the heart of our people-first philosophy. Lucy embodies everything Outrank and the team adore her.

Lucy’s role is all about making sure our values don’t just live in a handbook, they show up in real ways, every day. From onboarding new starters with energy and empathy , to checking in on team wellbeing, organising internal initiatives, celebrating wins, and making space for honest conversations, she’s the pulse of our culture.

She’s also there when things get tough, creating a safe environment where people feel heard, supported, and empowered to speak up. Whether it’s planning our next team away day or simply spotting when someone might need a boost, Lucy’s work ensures our culture is not only protected, it’s constantly evolving.

Because at Outrank, we believe culture deserves more than just attention, it deserves action. And with Lucy in the role, we’re making sure we live that belief.

From big, team-wide events to the smallest personal touches, Lucy makes sure Outrank is a place where everyone feels looked after and included. That includes:

  • Team events like Hardwick Live and family fun days that give us a chance to connect outside of work.
  • In-office activities that bring energy back into the room — quizzes, games, and afternoon challenges held at our very own Outrank bar: The Otter’s Pocket.
  • The Outrank Book Club – better known as The Outrank Sisterhood Reads – where thoughtful conversation and coffee mornings go hand in hand.
  • Beer Club Fridays, where the week winds down with good drinks and better company.
  • Teesside’s finest lunch tradition — yes, that means a proper parmo for the whole team.
  • And it’s not just the fun stuff. The essentials matter too. Toilets stocked with tampons, deodorant, hairspray — even emergency kits. Because nobody should feel caught out at work.

     

These are the things that build trust, boost morale, and create a work environment that feels more like a second home. Lucy brings heart into the culture and makes sure nobody is left out of it.

“I just love how laid back the office is in terms of banter and general atmosphere. Also how laid back it is from top-down, I can have a laugh with the CEO just as much as I can with someone who started last week.” – Connor Richards, Senior SEO Executive

What Are the Benefits of Strong Culture?

A strong culture isn’t just good for morale, it drives performance. At Outrank, we’ve seen first-hand how culture leads to better communication, faster innovation, and longer-lasting relationships, both internally and with our clients.

Retention: People stay where they feel supported. Our culture has helped us keep great people, and grow careers from within.

Collaboration: When trust is the default, collaboration comes naturally. Projects move quicker, feedback flows openly, and better ideas win.

Creativity: A safe environment unlocks creativity. Our team feels empowered to try, test, and challenge because they know their voice matters.

Wellbeing: With mental health and self-care prioritised, our team works with clarity, balance, and resilience.

Reputation: Culture travels. Our clients, partners, and community know what we stand for and that makes working with us feel different.

Simply put, culture isn’t a bonus, it’s a competitive advantage. It’s why we’re trusted, why we grow, and why the best people want to work here.

“The vibes are really good, and it helps energise people throughout the day.” – Rye Greenhaugh, SEO Delivery Manager

Milestones That Matter

Our journey has had its fair share of big moments and every one of them has been a team effort. From being shortlisted for Best Agency Culture to winning Small Business of the Year at the Tees Business Awards, it’s all been a result of the energy and commitment we put into our work and each other.

We’ve been nominated, recognised, and celebrated across the region and beyond, but what makes us proudest isn’t the trophies on the shelf; it’s the culture that got us there.

  • Tees Tech Awards Finalist
  • Small Business of the Year Winner – Tees Business Awards 2025
  • Celebrating 6 Years of Outrank
  • Welcoming 10+ new team members through 2024 and 2025
  • Shortlisted for Best Agency Culture
  • Named one of The Sunday Times Best Places to Work
  • Listed on the Great Place to Work Awards 2024 and 2025

These moments mean something because they reflect how far we’ve come and how committed we are to keeping culture at the core of everything we do.

“The atmosphere/vibe – everyone seems to get along with each other, and have a laugh with each other. This comes from top down – they all join in with the banter and it makes the place more enjoyable!” – Charles Little, Senior Developer

Why We Care About Community

Culture doesn’t stop at the office door. We’re rooted in Teesside and we care deeply about our local community. Supporting initiatives like Teesside Hospice and other causes close to home gives us perspective and reminds us of the bigger picture.

From sponsorships to fundraising, we ensure that giving back is part of our work. It’s not about box-ticking, it’s about being proud of where we’re from and doing our part.

The Otter in the Room

If you’ve ever spotted an otter in our branding, merch, or socials, you’re probably wondering, what’s with the otter? The truth is, it started as a bit of fun. But like all the best things at Outrank, it quickly became something meaningful.

Otters are known for being social, supportive, and thriving in tight-knit groups. Sound familiar? It felt right, and now, it’s a proud symbol of who we are: collaborative, playful, and always swimming in the same direction.

How We’re Building the Future

We’re not finished. Culture at Outrank isn’t static; it grows with us. As new people join, new clients come on board, and our services evolve, we keep adapting. But our core values stay the same:

  • Be kind.
  • Be curious.
  • Be clear.
  • Be the energy you want to attract.

These principles guide how we treat each other, how we work, and how we lead. They’re not stuck on a wall or buried in a handbook. They’re how we live.

“The smaller day-to-day things are what really bring a team together.”- Ryan Callaghan, Senior Developer

Outrank Team

Final Word: Culture Comes First

At Outrank, culture isn’t a department; it’s the starting point for everything. Our team is the reason we’re here, the reason we win, and the reason we’ll keep growing. Whether you’re a client, a candidate, or a curious reader, you’ll feel that energy from the first conversation.

So if you’re wondering what makes Outrank…Outrank? It’s the people. Always has been. Always will be.

Want to join the journey?
We’re always on the lookout for great people who care about doing great work. Check out our careers or get in touch — we’d love to hear from you.

Meet the team

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