Mark Lazarus
Web Developer
Joined in July 2025
Background
My route into web development was a bit of a winding one. Before my first proper dev role, the only time I’d really touched HTML and CSS was tweaking my MySpace page (definitely showing my age!)
I originally studied Broadcasting at the University of Leeds and began my career in TV & Film Production, working on a range of productions alongside the occasional James Bond stuntman, and even some CBBC puppets.
While it was an exciting industry, I realised I probably wasn’t going to become the next Spielberg. I’d done enough bar work to know I didn’t want to work in hospitality, so after returning home and rethinking my direction, I took a placement at a local web design agency.
I enjoyed the creative side but soon discovered I preferred building websites far more than designing them. The problem-solving side of development really clicked with me, and I’ve been hooked ever since.
Role at Platform 81
At Platform 81, I focus on building websites that are clean, user-friendly, and accessible to as many people as possible. I really enjoy the process of taking an idea and turning it into something functional that people can actually use and rely on. Seeing a project come to life is incredibly rewarding.
Web development is always evolving, which is part of what makes it so interesting. There’s always something new to learn, and I’m constantly looking for ways to improve how I build and structure sites – with the help of new AI tools, we’re already automating repetitive tasks which means we’re able to focus more on creative problem-solving.
My work focuses on:
Collaborating with designers to transform concepts into beautiful, performant websites.
Developing front-end functionality with clean, maintainable code.
Implementing accessibility best practices to improve user experience.
Outside of Work
Outside of work, I’m a massive foodie. I don’t just love eating good food but also cooking it, especially experimenting in the kitchen. At the weekend, I’ll usually whack a podcast or some music on in the background and spend an afternoon trying out new ideas – it’s definitely my happy place.
If I’m not cooking, you’ll probably find me unwinding with a good book or something on a streaming service. Either way, if it has dragons in it, I’m in.
Mark Lazarus has specialist knowledge in Web Development, Custom web design, UX/UI Design, Ecommerce websites and Conversion rate optimisation.
