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Don Clayton’s Journey at Moss UK
Don’s journey from telecommunications in South Africa to Head of Operations at Moss in the UK is anything but ordinary. With over two decades in the print industry, Don has become a key figure in driving innovation and creativity in large-format framing solution.
This blog offers a glimpse into Don’s dynamic role, highlighting his passion for teamwork, problem-solving, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible within framing and systems.
“My journey into the world of large-format printing and framing has been anything but traditional. Originally from South Africa, I arrived in the UK over two decades ago, stepping into the print industry after several years in telecommunications. When I first encountered aluminium frames, I was intrigued by their potential and joined a business involved in their manufacture, but I rarely saw them in use. It wasn’t until joining Moss, initially within Aluvista, that I saw the creative, inspiring work that framing provides to clients’ shows and exhibitions.
Starting the Day
My day begins like most in production, working closely with the team to review what’s come in overnight and ensure we have the resources in place to meet our clients’ needs. It’s a fast-paced environment, and planning is everything. Whether we’re managing stock, talking to suppliers, or brainstorming new products like dynamic lightboxes, the goal is always to offer our clients something innovative.
Moss is constantly looking at ways to improve our offering, and the wider Moss Group is instrumental in helping us bring new ideas in-house. We’re not just about fulfilling orders; we’re about finding the next breakthrough product to keep us ahead of the curve, which is always exciting.
Collaboration Across Teams
One of the key aspects of my role is working closely with our projects team, led by Jenny Smith. Together, we review upcoming projects across the whole of Moss UK, ensuring we’ve got the right personnel and resources lined up. From framing rentals to lightboxes and hanging structures, our projects are varied, and every day brings something new.
One project that stands out was our work with the European Molecular Biology Lab in Heidelberg, Germany. It was a fascinating collaboration where we partnered with creative and design teams to deliver large-format animated lightboxes that not only illuminated the space but helped guide visitors through the building. It was a perfect marriage of design and functionality, and seeing the finished product, where complex biological processes were brought to life for the public, was incredibly rewarding.
Overcoming Challenges
Like any production role, challenges are par for the course. For me, the biggest hurdle often comes down to how clients feed information to us and then adapting that to the practicalities of creating lightboxes and framing solutions. But that’s where the reward lies, taking a concept that might seem impossible and turning it into a reality.
Our new banner rental service is a great example of how we constantly grow and adapt. What started as a small part of the business has become a key offering, allowing clients a more sustainable, cost-effective solution. Quick, easy, and flexible, banner rentals are now a significant part of our operations, benefiting both our clients and the environment.
The Moss Team Spirit
What makes Moss special is the team, the people here are incredible. We’re all experts in our fields, and when an event is approaching or a project deadline is looming, we come together to make it happen.
Being part of a global brand like Moss also means we’re always sharing ideas and expertise across the company, whether it’s in Europe, the US, or beyond. It’s exciting to see how the work we do fits into the bigger picture, and I’m proud to be part of a team that’s always striving to be the best at what we do globally.
Life Beyond Moss
Outside of work, I’m a huge MotoGP fan and a biker myself. If I could, I’d love to be involved in organising stands and graphics at one of the big races around the world. But for now, when I’m not at work, you’ll find me spending time with my family, working on DIY projects, or enjoying my lovely garden with my four dogs.
Little did I know, 20 years ago, I’d find myself in the UK, helping to shape a dynamic, ever-evolving global business in an industry I’ve come to love. Every day at Moss is different, and that’s what keeps me passionate about my role. We’re always moving forward, always looking for the next big thing, and I’m excited for what the future holds.
