Erland Howden: profile picture Hi. I’m Erland. I’m a visual communication designer, web developer and photographer specialising in persuasive and socially engaged work.

I currently work in the acclaimed communications team of Jacinda Ardern, Prime Minister of Aotearoa New Zealand – primarily in web design, but also photography, social media and general comms.

Creative problem solving, attention to detail, curiosity and deep technical skills define my practice, but my approach is also informed by a background in strategy, mass-mobilisation, facilitation and governance as well as agency and freelance creative.

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I have highly specialised skills in web design and front-end development, including UI, UX, HTML5/CSS/JS, NationBuilder (certified Architect) & WordPress, but also do print and digital graphic design work with experience across poster, editorial, identity and marketing. I deliver creative and effective design solutions and my work in mass-mobilisation, social change and political arenas has given me a sharp sense of designing to inspire action in the audience. Discounted rates for progressive non-profits.

I’m at home behind the lens, whether capturing moments on the road with Jacinda Ardern, framing a landscape, stalking wildlife, composing portraiture or travelling. I’ve produced four short films, done work experience with the Sydney Morning Herald and AAP (Australian Associated Press) photographers, been the photographer for Sydney City circular “The City News” and been finalist in two prestigious nature photography competitions.

I’m a seasoned facilitator for meetings, strategic planning sessions and conferences – from one hour to multi-day processes. I’ve also worked with organisations on campaign strategy and training for staff, volunteers and stakeholders, specialising in community organising, corporate, financial and political campaigning.

Erland is a passionate, intelligent and reliable colleague who throws his heart and soul into his work. His critical analysis and constructive suggestions are always welcome. Erland is good at looking at a problem from different points of view and providing a fresh perspective. He is creative and flexible and able to think outside the square.

Mithra Cox, colleague, Nature Conservation Council

Erland by Don McLennanMore about me

Since migrating to Aotearoa in 2017, I have worked as a designer, developer, photographer, videographer and communications adviser in government, politics, advertising and marketing. Prior to the move, I worked in and around Sydney as an independent graphic designer, photographer and facilitator for a range of clients, while also pursuing community projects and being an active board member of Solar Citizens and a founding director of the Blue Mountains Renewable Energy Co-op.

I hold a Bachelor of Design in Visual Communication from the University of Technology, Sydney – a course which included a semester at the Hochschule für Gestaltung Schwäbisch Gmünd, an acclaimed design university in south-west Germany.

Throughout 2016, I launched and steered the digital side of Crinkling News, the only national newspaper for young Australians, founded by my sister and veteran journalist, Saffron Howden. Up until the beginning of 2014, I was leading financial and mobilisation strategies for Greenpeace Australia Pacific’s coal and Great Barrier Reef campaign. I grew up on a bush property on the outskirts of Sydney, moved west to the Blue Mountains for five years and now live in Te Whanganui-a-tara / Wellington.

The everyday things that excite me outside work are cycling (e-bike commuting, fat-tyre Surly for the trails), vegetarian food, exploring near and far and making the odd cocktail.

Read my full profile on LinkedIn. If you would like to find out more, please get in touch.