We all know the phrase "work with someone, not for them" means to collaborate and contribute in partnership.
Yet sometimes, the most effective way to drive results for certain clients is to take that to the next level, working truly with them, embedded within their business.
On a number of occasions over our 22 years, we have been asked by clients to provide strategic advice and hands-on support that goes beyond a typical retained agency approach. We’ve established the framework, but help and support is required in delivering the change.
That’s why we offer a unique service: embedding experienced strategic leadership colleagues from our agency directly into our clients’ teams, becoming a seamless part of their operation.
This approach allows us to provide unparalleled value when businesses face complex marketing challenges, require strategic clarity, or need the skills and experience of a senior marketing lead but only part-time or for a short period. Whether for a specific project or to drive the development of an in-house team, embedding one of our experienced leaders within your business can elevate performance, align efforts, and deliver exceptional outcomes, more cost effectively than recruitment.
Making sense of embedded leadership
Clients – and ourselves – may benefit from this approach for a key number of reasons, in our experience.
Sometimes it may be the first time that a senior marketing lead is required, or perhaps there is a leadership gap at that moment in time. While there’s a need to drive marketing campaigns, or align operations with commercial goals, it may be that a full-time, permanent senior strategist isn’t justified.
During significant periods of change – such as rebrands, digital transformation, or entering new markets – an embedded marketing leader can provide the clarity, direction and expertise to guide the business forward. Getting it to a place where the existing team can then take over.
Navigating transformation, digital or otherwise, requires a steady hand on the tiller, and an ability able to communicate at a high level across the business.
When internal teams and external agencies struggle to align, having someone who brings deep understanding of the planned strategy and can drive that change, while being able to build bridges, and grow internal skills and processes can help. Someone who understands both worlds embedded in the business can ensure seamless communication and execution.
From external expert to trusted insider
By embedding one of our senior marketing colleagues into your business, we bring the experience, perspective and strategic vision of a seasoned agency professional into the day-to-day operations of your team.
They sit in your meetings, contribute to decision-making, drive marketing strategies forward and work alongside your people, not just as consultants, but as trusted colleagues. They may be temporary Marketing Directors, project consultants or even join the board as Non-Executive Directors, our embedded leaders deliver measurable impact, without the long-term overheads of full-time, unproven hires.
This proximity allows us to dig deeper into your business's unique challenges and opportunities, ensuring every strategy we propose and (crucially) implement is pragmatic, actionable and aligned with your goals.
At the same time, we maintain our agency’s objectivity, offering fresh perspectives and challenging the status quo when needed.
So, if you need someone to work within your business, then get in touch. We’re only a conversation away from helping you with the change you need.
