Michael is in pole position for new career

University of Teesside design graduate Michael Pollard has one of the most famous bosses in the UK - Formula One Chief Bernie Ecclestone! 

Michael, 22, is originally from Thornaby, and now works in his dream job as a Graphic Editor/Designer for Formula One (F1) Management in Kent.

Michael’s job involves operating all the on-screen TV graphics, including timing, positions, names and car data that viewers see in each F1 competition.  So Michael’s work is seen by millions throughout the UK and internationally.

Michael is a BA (Hons) Industrial Design graduate.  He has a long-term passion for racing, following in the footsteps of his father, Brian.  As a schoolboy he took part in go-kart racing at Teesside Karting then moved onto saloon car racing at South Bank race track.  He also clinched a national racing scholarship at the age of 20, where he raced at all the major circuits in the country in dry and wet conditions.

He landed the F1 post after seeing the post advertised on the web site for the motor racing magazine, Autosport. Michael said: ‘I was the only candidate to have brought a design portfolio along.  They were also impressed with my computer work.  Thanks to the degree I’ve gained skills in 3D modelling and photoshop, I didn’t have to start from scratch.

‘This is my dream job.  My Dad’s over the moon that I’m doing something I love and enjoy.  The pressure can be intense as it’s a live race, getting all the data on screen straight away.  But then there’s so many benefits, I’ve travelled to Spain, Turkey and Canada so far with F1.  If I get some spare time I can go down to the race paddock and I’ve also stayed in the same hotel with drivers such as Lewis Hamilton.  There’s constant progression within the organisation as well.’

Michael is a former pupil of Thornaby Community School and Cleveland College of Art and Design. He is pictured at the University with his F1 paddock pass.

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