Sydney Agency ImpactInstitute Expands Both Team And Client List

ImpactInstitute, a specialist impact advisory, brand storytelling and events firm, has announced eight new client wins and 10 new team members since its formation this year.

ImpactInstitute began operations on 1 May, 2021, following the merger of two purpose-driven organisations and business partners, Social Impact Institute and Filtered Media. A certified B Corp., the firm was formed to help organisations change the world in positive, measurable and meaningful ways.

Not-for-profit organisations to join the firm within the first six months of operations include University of Newcastle, Housing Industry Association, Anti-Slavery Australia, Miracle Babies Foundation and Heads Together for Acquired Brain Injury.

Human-first technology companies now partnering with ImpactInstitute include Australian clean technology powerhouse 5B, property technology company Propic, and ethical AI pioneer Akin.

At the same time, ImpactInstitute has continued to build on client partnerships with new or retained engagements across its portfolio of integrated impact advisory, brand storytelling and virtual and expo event services.

Clients include Adobe, Space&Co., AGSM, Certis Group, PwC Australia, Australian Christian College, University of NSW Business School, Adventist Education, Gotcha4Life, Chartered Accountants ANZ, Crystal Wealth Partners, RSPCA Queensland, The Benevolent Society, and Australia for UNHCR.

David Jack, co-CEO, executive chair and principal advisor, said it was encouraging to see new clients joining the firm across its integrated impact advisory, brand storytelling and event services.

“These new clients are accessing a research approach that informs evidence-based planning, decision-making and implementation,” Jack said.

“This is enabling them to pursue strategic initiatives with confidence and the ability to measure effectiveness and success.”

Meanwhile, ImpactInstitute continues to grow with new and returning team members. Investment in research and impact advisory capabilities increased with three key appointments.

• Clinical Associate Professor Michelle Jack, head of research and senior advisor. Qualifications include Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery (Gold Medal, 1st Hons), PhD, Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians.
• Tambri Housen, advisor and researcher. Qualifications include PhD (International Health), Masters of Philosophy in Applied Epidemiology, Masters of Public Health & Tropical Medicine (with Distinction), Diploma of Tropical Nursing, Graduate Program in Paediatrics & Women’s Health, Bachelor of Science (Nursing).
• Samantha Lain, advisor and researcher. Qualifications include a PhD, Masters of Public Health, Bachelor of Health Science (Hons), Bachelor of Commerce.
• Julie Behrens, account director, advisory. Qualifications include B Nurs, MBA and 24 years in strategic management, marketing and business development.

New and returning brand storytelling team members include:

• Candice Witton, account manager + storyteller returned after experience with the London Symphony Orchestra.
• Sarah Fairley, head of people and culture, returned from parental leave to play a pivotal role in merger integration and employee experience.
• Andrew Wolfson, Salesforce consultant + advisor, represents a strategic investment in our data and technology capabilities.
• Yvette Thomson, events marketing coordinator, joined the firm in anticipation of Australia’s COVID recovery and the return of ImpactInstitute’s national program of Disability Expos that attract 20,000 attendees each year.
• Nicoletta Vasilaras, PR assistant; Ed Cheng, video and audio producer; and Jasmine Haw, content producer joined to support the growth of our brand storytelling services.

“It’s gratifying to have received so much positive support from our partners and team members during these early and very busy days of the new firm,” said Mark Jones, co-CEO and chief storyteller.

“We’re investing in talented, values-aligned people because purpose-driven organisations are hungry for the right combination of strategic outlook, integrated storytelling and evidence-driven impact advisory services.”

David Garden, marketing director at ACC Group, supported ImpactInstitute through the merger and described the team as professional and efficient.

“They devise creative PR strategies and follow through with faultless execution. It’s reassuring to have a partner who you know delivers on their commitments without having to be micromanaged.”