Rachael Burnside

Head of Marketing and Growth

With more than a decade’s experience leading multi-channel campaigns at advertising agencies across sport, automotive and the public sector, Rachael's specialism is in digital marketing with expertise in e-commerce. At SHIFT, Rachael oversees various client accounts, including Rapha, fizik, Cotswold Outdoor, Runners Need, and Snow & Rock. Rachael also spearheads the marketing function of the business, strategically expanding SHIFT's profile and business, growing the brand - and leading the charge in promoting the Rider Research Hub. Rachael is also the founder of Uplift - The Women in Cycling Industry Mentorship Programme. All whilst being an avid road cyclist, runner and has commuted by bike for 9 years.

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James Dando

Business Director

James has a media career spanning 20 years, with roles in production at the BBC, international publishing companies, and for the last 10+ years, on the agency side, supporting SHIFT’s existing clients while onboarding new ones. James takes the lead on several of SHIFT’s clients, particularly where larger production and/or creative output is required. He is also responsible for directing the recruitment and onboarding of new clients to the agency, ensuring that both SHIFT and the client are set up for long-term success. As a five-time Ironman, James isn’t afraid to commit to something, but he enjoys a variety of pastimes, including CrossFit, trail running with his daughter, walks with the family, and the occasional camping trip.

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Simon Brace

Business Director

With 25 years in marketing communications, Simon started out at AMV.BBDO and progressed to board-level responsibilities at agencies covering nearly every discipline. From Mars to PepsiCo to Danone, Simon primarily led FMCG clients until he landed at SHIFT, where his sporting passions lie in cycling. Simon heads up teams managing various global macro communications for a variety of exciting and leading brands, including Giant, Zwift, Continental, Pinarello, and Classified. Simon is a competitive duathlete: current British Champion, bronze medalist at the World Long-Distance (2022), and bronze medalist at the European Middle-Distance (2024). He is also a Trustee and writes the newsletter for Team Bath AC.

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Heather Mckay

Account Executive

Heather joined the account management team at SHIFT after completing a digital marketing apprenticeship while working at a wine and cocktail bar. Heather worked to promote the business digitally whilst managing the socia media account too. She first joined SHIFT for work experience during her course and returned full-time shortly after as an account executive. As a nature lover, Heather enjoys running and being outdoors whenever possible. She loves a cold winter hike and is always up for a team sport. She recently bought her first gravel bike, and is quickly starting to love it! Heather has a strong passion for art and design, often spending her free time learning new techniques or exploring creative projects.

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Kirstin Bamford

Account Manager

Kirstin joined SHIFT in January 2023, having previously worked as a Solicitor at a leading Edinburgh law firm. Her client-oriented background, combined with her passion for sport, brings a unique perspective to the Account Management team. Kirstin works closely with the PR, Paid Media, Creative, and Content Services teams, playing a key role in maintaining client relationships and ensuring the successful execution of campaigns. Kirstin has a strong background in competitive sports, having grown up as a keen runner and competing internationally in three-day eventing (horse riding). Driven by her love for a challenge, her main interests are now triathlon and cycling.

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Charlie Clarke

Account Manager

Charlie has been working in the industry for over ten years, with experience in creative roles spanning across Europe. He has first-hand experience curating campaigns, engineering products and designing concepts for brands, manufacturers and events. Charlie has experience across a range of industries including FMCG, apparel, tech and creative arts, for brands including Pas Normal Studios, Dom Perignon, Bang & Olufsen and T100 Triathlon. In his free time Charlie races road and gravel bikes, along with triathlons. A creative at heart, understanding the brands and products he uses is a big part of his relationship with sport.

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