Guy Browning

Guy Browning, born in 1964 in Chipping Norton, embarked on his career after being educated at Magdalen College School and Lady Margaret Hall, Oxford. Initially, he delved into comedy as part of the duo Dross Bros, alongside Patrick Marber. Following this, Browning transitioned into the advertising industry, working with Darcy Macius Benton Bowles, where he was involved in creating notable campaigns, including the memorable line “Delicious Meaty Chunks in a Nutritious Gravy.” This early experience in understanding consumer appeal and communication then led him to become the Creative Director of the Added Value Company. In 1997, he established his own venture, Smokehouse, an innovation consultancy specializing in organizing interactive events globally. This business focuses on helping companies develop new products and services, showcasing his applied expertise in creativity and strategy.

Browning’s career further expanded into writing, becoming a prominent humourist and columnist. From 1999 to 2009, he penned the “How To…” column for The Guardian, which garnered significant readership. Prior to this, his writing focused on topics such as office politics and social climbing. He has also authored several successful business books, including “Innervation: Rewire Yourself for the New Economy” (2003) and “Grass Roots Management” (2002), which demonstrate his insights into contemporary business practices. His humorous works, such as “Never Hit a Jellyfish with a Spade” and “Never Push When it Says Pull,” became bestsellers, with his content translated into eight languages, reflecting his widespread appeal. In 2014, he published “How to be Normal,” followed by “The British Constitution: First Draft” in 2015. Additionally, he co-wrote the Sidestroke cartoon in the Sunday Times with Janet Brown.

His presence extends to radio and film. Browning is a regular contributor to BBC Radio 4, notably with “Small Talk” (2003) and the two-series run of “Weak at the Top” (2005/2006), starring Alexander Armstrong. The fictional company in “Weak at the Top,” Smokehouse, shares the name with Browning’s real-life consultancy. In 2009, he made his debut as a film director with “Tortoise in Love,” a production set in Kingston Bagpuize. The film premiered in 2012 as part of the Leicester Square refurbishment opening and later saw release in the UK, US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Residing in Kingston Bagpuize, Oxfordshire, with his three children, Guy Browning continues to be an influential figure in humor, business, and media.