As originally featured in Campaign
Independent media agency The Kite Factory has launched Ascend, a new growth consultancy designed to help brands overcome marketing complexity and unlock sustainable growth. Drawing on over two decades of client-side & agency media expertise, proprietary tools, and strategic know-how, Ascend delivers clear, actionable consultancy built around three core pillars: Insight, Change, and Innovation.
The launch responds to growing client demand for strategic direction that goes beyond traditional media planning and buying. As consumer behaviour shifts and competition intensifies, brands need to break down silos, make smarter use of data, and innovate with confidence. Ascend is built to meet that need—offering hands-on, collaborative support that bridges the gap between ambition and execution.
Ascend’s strength lies in its leadership, which is shaped by deep client-side experience. The consultancy is led by Managing Partner Helen Radia and Head of Insight Charley Day, both of whom held senior marketing roles at WaterAid and Crisis before joining The Kite Factory. Their firsthand experience gives them a unique perspective on the internal pressures, cross-functional challenges, and real-world complexities that marketing teams face. This insider understanding enables Ascend to bridge the often-fragmented worlds of agencies, consultancies, and in-house teams—aligning stakeholders, embedding strategy, and driving meaningful, lasting change.
Ascend also takes a holistic approach to modern marketing. Too often, businesses treat brand, media, creative, and design as siloed functions. Ascend was built to connect the dots—ensuring every element of the marketing ecosystem is working in sync. From aligning media spend with audience insight, to ensuring creative and design reflect brand values and business goals, Ascend helps brands craft a coherent, compelling story that cuts through the noise and drives real value.
“We work closely with marketing teams every day and understand the pressures they’re under—juggling complex ecosystems, tightening budgets, and evolving expectations,” said Helen Radia, Managing Partner at The Kite Factory. “Ascend offers a fresh, flexible consultancy model that brings clarity, momentum, and measurable impact.”
Ascend is not a traditional consultancy. It’s deliberately designed to be agile, affordable, and embedded—making expert strategic support accessible to ambitious brands and non-profits, where big consultancy fees are often out of reach.
Backed by The Kite Factory’s research tools, audience insight capabilities, and industry partnerships, Ascend has already proven its impact through projects with brands including Barnardo’s, Maggie’s, and most recently NatWest Cushon [subject to announcement timing].
“We know that strategy only matters if it can be acted on,” added James Smith, CEO of The Kite Factory. “Ascend is built to work in the real world—supporting teams with thinking that’s smart, pragmatic, and focused on outcomes. It’s consultancy that gets things moving.”
Looking to accelerate your next phase of growth? Please visit Ascend to learn more and see how we can help you overcome challenges and unlock your brand’s full potential.