Passionate about marketing: your path to success
With a lifelong love for marketing, I’ve accumulated extensive experience working with top brands through to start ups. From my early days at British Airways to my time at leading London advertising agencies, I’ve honed my skills in developing successful marketing strategies and launching products for major companies such as Hewlett Packard, Shell, and O2. Notably, I developed an award-winning social media and thought leadership strategy for Vodafone. Learn more about my 20+ year career on LinkedIn.
Introducing Sharp Thinking: setting businesses on the right track
After taking a break to start a family, I discovered a new passion for helping others achieve their business goals. Through collaboration with local organisations, I’ve made a real impact by generating impressive results.
My mission is to advise businesses on marketing strategy through my own tried-and-true process called The Sharp Way. This practical and relevant approach to marketing planning is tailored to the needs of busy business owners. With a strong focus on delivering results, I help clients generate a return on investment across all marketing activities while building their brand for long-term success.
Making a difference in the community
As a family, we’ve faced adversity, including a life-changing accident over a decade ago. This experience has instilled in me a strong belief in giving back. I leverage my marketing and business skills to contribute to local schools, charities, and community-led organisations. By bringing marketing expertise to smaller enterprises, I continue to forge meaningful alliances that create a positive impact.
Nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs
Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to receive guidance from experienced colleagues, which ignited my passion for mentoring. Four years ago, I became a business mentor for the Kent Foundation, supporting young entrepreneurs in Kent as they strive to achieve their ambitions. The Kent Foundation, a not-for-profit organization, provides under 30-year-olds with business and mentoring support. I’ve assisted fitness businesses, production companies, and tech start-ups, empowering the next generation to succeed.
Volunteering for a better tomorrow
Five years ago, the St James’ School PTA faced fundraising challenges. Drawing on my marketing expertise, I developed a new strategy that turned things around, generating £10,000 in just four weeks. Since then, I’ve continued to volunteer, utilizing my marketing skills and connections. And last year I helped local dance school The Dance Consortium with their marketing, PR and sponsorship. Find out more. Most recently, I’ve started working with The Skinners Kent Academy, offering marketing career guidance to students.
Fundraising for a worthy cause
Since establishing Sharp Thinking, I’ve helped raise £30,000 for both national and local charities that align with my passion. As the business continues to grow, giving back remains a top priority. I’ve supported Monkey Music in Tunbridge Wells and Sevenoaks, contributing to the music therapy charity Nordoff Robbins by raising £16,000. I even participated in a triathlon, dedicating three intense months of training to this physical challenge.
“I had the pleasure of working alongside Natalie in a sporting fundraising campaign. Natalie proved to be an invaluable member of the team, motivating and supporting others throughout the months. She is incredibly generous and open with her knowledge and skills and always saw the bigger picture, leveraging her communication and marketing expertise. Her contributions were always positive and productive as she sought to drive the team forward from providing social media tips to framing our fundraising goals. In all honesty, I don’t think we would have achieved our goals without Natalie’s sound advice and timely input along the way.” Alison Norman, Monkey Music
Amidst the pandemic, I was moved by the story of a local charity called Good Neighbours, which supports the elderly. They were severely impacted by the crisis, prompting me to contribute what I could. I ran two consecutive 5km fun runs dressed as Santa to raise funds and awareness. Last summer, I continued my fundraising efforts and partook in another triathlon, raising £1,500 for Cancer Research.
Committed to sustainability
At Sharp Thinking, I understand the importance of sustainability. That's why I completed a sustainability course conducted by Small Business Britain in collaboration with Oxford Brookes Business School. As part of my commitment, I’ve pledged to become net zero. Learn more in the Sharp Thinking Sustainability Policy.
So why use Sharp Thinking?
With over 20 years of experience in marketing, I'm a proactive, practical, and resourceful professional. I'm proud to be the 2021 winner of the Local Business Awards for best marketing and PR organisation and a finalist for Entrepreneur of the Year in prestigious awards such as The Times of Tunbridge Wells Business Awards, National Business Awards, and National Business Women's Awards.
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My expertise has garnered me numerous 5-star reviews on Google, showcasing the satisfaction and trust my clients have in my services. When it comes to providing recommendations, I rely on insight gained from my experience working with London marketing agencies. I prioritise your customers by placing them at the heart of every decision.
As an independent consultant, I offer a fresh and unbiased perspective for your business. Unlike agencies, my goal is not to cross-sell any additional services. My focus lies in ensuring a solid return on investment for your marketing efforts. I believe in setting clear metrics and employing effective evaluation techniques, avoiding fluff or vague terminology.
By entrusting your marketing needs to me, you gain peace of mind and the ability to focus on running your business. I handle all the planning and strategising, bringing you closer to achieving your business objectives. Rest assured that your marketing is in capable hands, allowing you the flexibility and freedom to pursue your goals.