S06.EP01 - How to Go From Bland to Brand with Steve Noss of Cooper Parry
Feb 2, 2025
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Steve Noss, the Head of Creative at Cooper Parry, is the creative mind transforming accounting into a vibrant brand. He shares insights on how culture and authenticity can revolutionize a traditionally bland industry. From adopting innovative workplace policies like unlimited holidays to emphasizing customer centricity, Cooper Parry stands out as a rebel in accountancy. Noss also discusses the importance of aligning brand image with company values, all while creating a fun and engaging company culture that attracts top talent.
Cooper Parry successfully transformed their brand identity by embracing a vibrant and rebellious culture, differentiating themselves from traditional accountancy firms.
The firm's impressive revenue growth from ÂŁ8 million to ÂŁ180 million exemplifies their commitment to bold aspirations and innovative brand building strategies.
Deep dives
Season 6 Lineup Preview
The podcast highlights an exciting lineup of influential guests for Season 6, including industry leaders such as Mark Ritson and Rory Sutherland. This season aims to provide designers and entrepreneurs with invaluable insights into branding and marketing. The hosts, Jacob Cass and Matt Davies, express their commitment to delivering engaging and thought-provoking content designed to help listeners grow their brands and business acumen. The anticipation builds as they promise a rich array of discussions and expert knowledge throughout the season.
Rebellious Branding in Accountancy
Steve Noss, the head of creative at Cooper Parry, discusses how the firm transformed from a typical accountancy practice into a vibrant, rebellious brand. Known as the 'rebels of accountancy,' Cooper Parry has carved out a niche by embracing a more modern identity, stepping away from the traditional, stuffy image often associated with accounting. The firm's approach focused on presenting themselves in a colorful and engaging manner, which significantly contrasts with the dull appearance of their competitors. This willingness to break away from conventions has allowed them to attract a unique clientele and build a memorable brand identity.
Creating a Distinctive Company Culture
The podcast delves into how Cooper Parry's leadership fosters a company culture that encourages spontaneity and creativity among its employees. By allowing team members to be themselves and promoting a casual work environment, the firm has developed a vibrant atmosphere that stands out in the professional services industry. Steve emphasizes the importance of having a brand image that aligns with the internal culture, as this authenticity resonates with clients and employees alike. The culture is further exemplified by events like the 'Culture Carnival' that promote a sense of community within the organization.
Sustainable Growth and Future Vision
Stepping beyond traditional growth metrics, Cooper Parry has achieved substantial success, with revenues skyrocketing from ÂŁ8 million to approximately ÂŁ180 million over the past 20 years. Steve discusses the continuous pursuit of growth through a mix of organic development and strategic M&A activities, ensuring the firm's ongoing evolution. Cooper Parry's ambition includes reaching a billion pounds in turnover by 2030, highlighting their commitment to bold aspirations in the competitive market. This progress is backed by a robust vision and the alignment of leadership, reinforcing the firm's innovative spirit and commitment to authenticity.
If you are looking to build a standout brand in a comoditised marketplace then this is the episode for you!
👉 Learn more: https://justcreative.com/podcast
Cooper Parry is a UK accountancy firm like no other. They are famous for being "the rebels of accountancy" and zigging when everyone else is zagging.
They epitomise many of the principles brand strategists speak about in theory. Using brand and culture they have become one of the fasted growing professional services businesses in the UK.
Join us from the front lines as we speak with their Creative Director (yes thats right an accountancy firm with a CD!) to unpack the story and secrets of their brand building success.
Use these same principles, so you can take your business from bland to brand, you rebel!
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