Challenge

As a newly established global change consultancy, Uuna is on a mission to deliver human-led change and transformation on a global scale. In its first year, Uuna faces the crucial task of building a solid foundation amidst rapid growth. With rapid expansion came the need for a coherent strategy, seamless brand positioning, and support in handling operational complexities – crucial areas that will determine the company’s future success. 

Recognising an opportunity to learn from experienced mentors and advisors and accelerate the business’s success, Uuna founder, Charlotte Talmage, turned to The Grafter. 

With their proven track record in guiding businesses through critical phases of growth, The Grafter was the perfect partner to help Uuna transition from a fledgling consultancy to a well-positioned player in the industry. For Charlotte, it wasn’t just about learning through experience, but about leveraging the insights of experts to guide Uuna’s growth intentionally and with purpose.

Approach

At The Grafter, we believe in working in close partnership with our clients, and our collaboration with Uuna was no different. From the outset, we worked side by side with Charlotte, ensuring we truly understood her vision and the unique challenges the business faced. Together, we crafted a robust strategic foundation, clarifying Uuna’s purpose, values, and long-term goals. This strategic clarity gave Uuna a roadmap for growth and a unified direction that the entire team could rally behind.

In addition to strategy development, we refined Uuna’s brand messaging, ensuring the external voice reflects the business identity and strategic goals. By helping articulate Uuna’s voice, we ensured that the company could confidently communicate its mission and values to both prospective clients and internal stakeholders. This work laid the groundwork for future marketing efforts, including website content that will reflect Uuna’s identity.

Our partnership also extended into coaching, where we helped Charlotte navigate the day-to-day challenges of leadership during rapid growth. Our sessions were designed to address the issues she was facing in real-time—whether it was managing internal team dynamics, solving interpersonal conflicts, or simply validating decisions to help the business move forward with confidence. 

Moreover, we introduced Uuna to new business prospects, including Cognizant and Herd, expanding their network and opening doors for potential collaboration. We also provided critical advice on compliance, cybersecurity, and contract management, ensuring Uuna met the requirements of its larger clients. Throughout this journey, we were readily available to offer ad-hoc advice and strategic support whenever needed, helping Charlotte steer Uuna through its critical early growth phase.

Impact 

The partnership between Uuna and The Grafter delivered significant, lasting outcomes, positioning Uuna for continued growth and success. With a clear strategic foundation, Uuna now has the confidence and clarity to scale with purpose. The refined brand messaging has empowered the company to communicate its values effectively, strengthening relationships with both clients and internal teams.

Charlotte’s leadership evolved as well, benefiting from targeted coaching that helped her navigate internal dynamics and make key decisions with confidence. Uuna’s network has expanded, and the company is now fully compliant with major clients like Cognizant, positioning it for future business opportunities.

“The Grafter helped me gain the confidence that I’m building a business in the right way. Their support—from strategy to conflict management—has been invaluable. The network, advice, and guidance they provide have been instrumental in shaping Uuna’s future. I feel like I’ve been part of a community that truly understands what it takes to grow.”Charlotte, Founder of Uuna
Founder of Uuna, Charlotte Talmage talking to a person in front of her

Ultimately, Uuna’s first year has been defined by purposeful growth and a solid foundation, ensuring the company’s ability to continue thriving in a competitive market. Through our ongoing support, Uuna is now well-positioned to meet the challenges of tomorrow, with a clear path toward further expansion in a rapidly changing market.