The Coop
We’re an agile and cost-conscious team of experienced commercial mobile app developers. We can offer anything from an hour or two’s advice on specifying the mobile aspects of your new project. To executing and implementing complex multi-developer mobile projects using either native or cross-platform solutions. The team possess all the skills necessary to develop apps that are both serious business tools and creative fun. We’re dedicated to creating great software for Android and iOS platforms.
Bearded Hen was established in 2011 but the directors were established rather earlier… Andy as a top-class commercial software developer and enterprise Java programmer for the last 25 years, Ed as an interactive multimedia developer, web developer, e-business specialist, and director of CartoonStock.com since 1996.
The Hens (Team)
We’re a well-balanced team of mobile developers with a wide range of experience. One e-business professional, one designer, and access to web development expertise when we need it.
TECHNICAL DIRECTOR
Andy Knapp
Over 20 years of experience working for a leading software house gave Andy a disciplined, time conscious and professional approach to software. Former clients range from multinational telecoms operators to small local businesses. He has a particularly strong background in Java, XML and C#. Add to this 10 years working exclusively in mobile technologies and you’ll understand why clients find Andy quickly understands their issues and translates their requirements into robust and efficient apps.
Andy’s passion for clear, intuitive user interfaces and efficient, maintainable, robust design place him perfectly to exploit the potential of mobile technologies.
COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR
Ed Beardwell
A Rolls-Royce trained engineer turned chartered accountant, Ed moved into interactive multimedia in 1996 when interactive CD-ROMs were all the rage. He developed products for training, medical, pharmaceutical and software companies as well as a range of novelty consumer products.
In 1998 he combined the photo library business model with internet technology to form CartoonStock, one of the first image marketplaces on the web.
CartoonStock has grown steadily and diversified its business through two dotcom booms and busts and continues to lead its field, leaving Ed a seasoned e-business professional.
As Commercial Director, Ed makes it his business to ensure the right resources are applied to each project, that things get delivered on schedule, and that clients get a solution that fulfils, or hopefully exceeds their requirements.
SENIOR MOBILE DEVELOPER
Jesús
A Telecommunications Engineering graduate from the University of Granada, Jesús’ passion for all things mobile has led him to the UK with a determination to pick up new languages and skills that has made him our go to man for the more niche client requirements.
Already in Jesús’ short time in mobile development he has picked up a huge skill set, adapting to the needs of our diverse client base. Jesus is particularly strong in both iOS and Flutter development.
Jesús enjoys most sports with a passion for tennis and, more recently, taking advantage of what’s on offer to the climbing community in and around Bristol.
SENIOR MOBILE DEVELOPER
Christos
A recent Computer Science graduate from the University of Bath (first-class degree no less), Christos’s interest and aptitude for mobile development led him to join us as a graduate mobile developer. Currently specialising in Android & iOS native languages but a keen interest in software architecture and applying best practice at all levels of software production. Christos is the company advocate for Reactive Programming.
A drummer and avid tennis player, Christos likes hitting things very hard in his spare time.
MOBILE DEVELOPER
Darshani
Darshani joined us to pursue her passion for mobile development having had previous experience programming mobile game apps after graduating as a computer Scientist. With 6 years of experience in the industry, Darshani is building a strong portfolio of skills having recently added our preferred cross-platform language of Flutter to her skill set.
JUNIOR MOBILE DEVELOPER/GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Michael
Formerly a Costa Coffee store manager. Michael took up studying an iOS Development in his own time, completing an online Bachelor’s Diploma on the subject.
Now working for us, Michael is also taking up learning Flutter, and Kotlin as well. With a keen eye for design and an Adobe pro, Michael regularly gets involved in branding, graphic design, imagery, infographics and interface design.
Given his previous role, he is mad about all things coffee and is a latte artist! He has interests in Photography, Cinema, Graphic Design and things that look nice.