Stockton-based digital and brand agency Ryze demonstrated exactly how Teesside businesses can compete on the world stage, with CEO David Smith speaking to more than 100 attendees at the AI-themed Tees Business Live held at the borough’s Riverside Stadium.
In a passionate and well-received presentation, David, who was described by the organizers as an “extraordinary man” for his energy and clarity, explained how Rise has grown from a small Teesside start-up to an internationally recognized agency competing with companies more than 20 times its size.
He reflected on how Ryze started and the ethos that still drives the business today. “I was driven by progress and inspired to go further.”
He said that mindset had driven the company’s journey from early ambitions to winning industry-leading awards, partnering with major clients and proving that top creative and digital talent could flourish right here in the Tees region.
David highlighted Ryze’s expanding role in the AI space, from building brands and digital experiences for AI platforms and services, to collaborating with physical AI and robotics companies to visualize and realize breakthrough visions.
He also highlighted Rise’s work with Teesside-based Latos, which has planning permission to build a £100m data center at Preston Farm in Stockton.
David explained that his work with Latos is helping define an infrastructure design for cutting-edge AI. This is an example of how regional collaboration can create truly pioneering innovation.
“We are delighted to partner with Tees Business to share our story and talk about our work with AI in the hope of educating others in the region,” said David.
“We are proud and excited to do what we do and to work with companies that share our values. We really hope everyone enjoyed this event and had the pleasure of meeting and connecting with so many people.”
The event, hosted by Tees Business, also featured a lively audience Q&A with a panel of experts including David, Latos VP of Sales and Marketing Peter Wilcock, Circle Cloud MD Tom Roberton, and Durata’s Modular Data Center Project Lead Lewis Cobb.
Click here to see the latest Tees Business Live photo gallery.
