South Yarra brand strategy consultancy Neighbourhood Strategy has added retailer Harris Scarfe to its growing list of clients.

The firm, founded in January by Jacqueline Witts, former Chief Strategy Officer at Clemenger BBDO, specialises in assisting marketers and agencies in solving brand problems through strategic thinking.

"We call ourselves 'Neighbourhood' because we believe a good neighbour is the right kind of relationship you want for someone who works on defining your brand. We know enough to open you to new ideas, but we never lose the clarity an expert on the outside brings," said Witts.

Harris Scarfe Head of Marketing, Laurelle Esse, said: "nowhere else would we find the depth of brand experience and discipline offered by Jacs and the team to help us redefine the Harris Scarfe brand."

The consultancy has also recently welcomed new hires Kate Silver, former General Manager at Leo Burnett Australia, and Christine O'Keefe, ex The Lab Research and Strategy Director.

"Jacs and I have a similar perspective on the value of great strategy to fuel brands and creativity, and I think we have a pretty exceptional and unique offering to assist brands and agencies. I'm pumped!" said Silver.