Meet the Paddlers
Discover more about the Paddle Creative team.
We are a small but passionate, specialist team here to work as an extension of your team.
Aaliyah Connelly
Content Coordinator
Hi! I’m Aaliyah, based in Derby. Here at Paddle I act as the Content Coordinator. This means that I manage the content and social media elements of Paddle and your business; whether it's creating a blog, scheduling articles on social media, or authoring MetaData, it all falls to me. For years, I've had a passion for writing, having tried every form there is, be it for myself, internships, or studies, I've had a lot of practice! I'm currently pursuing a Writing and Film degree at university, so you can be certain that I'll be able to convey your message effectively no matter the platform.
Saber Bouafia
Designer & Webflow Developer
Hi, I’m Saber, I’m a designer and Webflow developer here at Paddle Creative. I studied electrical engineering and worked as an electrical engineer before deciding to pursue my passion in Webdesign and Webflow development by retraining in UI/UX, Webdesign, and front-end development.
When I am not immersed in a creative project, you’ll often find me reading, running, or enjoying spending time with family and friends.
Anna O'Reilly
Webflow Developer & Project Manager
Hi There! I'm Anna, an Irish Native and Webflow nerd. I love to travel and work remotely travelling everywhere from Australia to Costa Rica. I love learning new things and aim to read/ listen to over 50 books a year. I studied Marketing, Innovation and Technology in Dublin City University before moving to Melbourne, Australia and began my career as a brand and web designer, where I designed over 50 companies branding. I soon discovered Webflow and haven’t looked back since. If I'm not out for a vegan brunch you'll find me at some stand up comedy sipping a craft beer or a concert screaming my lungs out.
Matt Connelly
CEO & Founder
I started my career in the Tourism sector, being a Sales & Marketing Director at a Tour Operator. But I had this need, a need to cast my expertise wider and help more businesses. I have helped to grow businesses in a range of sectors, from beauty to travel, to housing developers and language schools. I do this by what I call a '360 approach'. I tackle all aspects of business growth you want me to get involved in and strategically link it all together. Whether you are looking for simple marketing advice, a new responsive website that Google will love or implementation of a digital marketing strategy including SEO, Adwords and more - talk to me!
I have over a decade of experience in growing businesses like yours through cleverly crafted marketing strategies, always striving to go well beyond what is asked to bring results.
Bogdan Dumitrache
Webflow Project Manager
Hello! I'm Bogdan, a Webflow enthusiast living in Romania. I have a background in law, but I discovered my true passion in Web Development. I love using Webflow to bring beautiful and functional websites to life.
I enjoy alternating between working from home and spending time in nature, or traveling to new destinations by car with the people I love.
Claire Connelly
Commercial Director
I have had a varied career, working in the NHS, as a business owner in the beauty sector and still continue to run fitness classes. This extremely varied career path has enabled me to develop skills and experiences that I use every day.
My role at Paddle Creative sees me ensuring the business runs efficiently and we continually seek out new opportunities for growth. I get to know about all projects and love the variety of businesses we work with, across the globe.
Joseph Priam Brion
Operations Manager
Hey! I’m Joseph, an Operations Manager with over 10 years of experience across industries ranging from Health and Wellness to Digital Design services. My diverse background has honed my ability to drive efficiency by creating and streamlining processes. I have a deep appreciation for functional design and the benefits of simple yet charming products. Living a balanced and sustainable lifestyle is important to me, as it helps me thrive both personally and professionally. I enjoy strength training, exploring global cuisines, and listening to music from around the world.
Utsav Kataria
SEO Project Strategist
I am an avid learner and a student of life. I have been a competitive swimmer and I love sports like Horse Riding, Show Jumping, Wrestling etc. I'm dedicated to mastering new skills, striving for perfection in each one. Academically, I hold a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, majoring in Financial Accounting and minoring in Economics.
I began my career as an auditor at one of the Big Four. But my interest in marketing and business drove me to explore the intersection of market dynamics and visual communication. This curiosity led me to delve into graphic design, recognizing its crucial role in marketing. Furthering this exploration, I ventured into website design, understanding its significance as a visual tool for marketing ideas and products.
My Key skills: SEO, Market Research, Content Strategy, UI & UX Design.
Mike Miello
Digital Strategist
I have been helping businesses for over ten years to grow online. I've worked with local businesses through to Enterprise multi-national organisations. Whether it be Webflow, SEO or a communication strategy, I can help your business stand out online.
After several years helping businesses, I started teaching at schools and have spoken at education conferences about digital strategy, storytelling and web design.
I now live in Paris with my wife and kids, and work with Paddle Creative to help grow businesses across the globe.