Clare Brophy

Hi! Tell us about yourself

I'm an independent Strategist with experience in branding, advertising, innovation and design.​ I've helped build brands for Fortune 500 companies

as well as smaller brands in the CPG, Wellness, Beauty and Food categories .I'm a conceptual thinker with a passion for creating culturally relevant,

distinctive brands. I founded Giraffe so I could do more of the work I love and less that I don't. So far it's working out...

Tell us about your business!

My business is located in Maplewood, NJ and is a brand consultancy that also offers brand coaching services. I currently work with founders of small businesses or small-mid sized brands in personal care, food and wellness. 

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in the suburbs of Birmingham, a big city in the UK. I’ve lost my Brummie accent but the down to earth approach has stayed with me.

How long have you lived in SOMa?

I’ve lived here for 15 years and  it's the longest I’ve lived anywhere. It’s the people that have kept us here!

How did you find yourself doing this work?

I was visiting some friends I knew in Budapest and decided to stay for a while. I’d heard that advertising agencies were opening up (after the wall came down) and were looking for English speakers to work with their clients. That’s how I ended up getting my first  job out of university with Grey Advertising. I spent 20 years with Grey working in different cities: Budapest, London and New York. 

What excites you the most about what you do?

I love the creation of new brands, new products and/or breathing new life into brands that are in need of a fresh start.

What 4 items are essential for you to do the work you do?

A curious mind

Good listening skills

An understanding of what excites and engages people

Clarity of thought

(I’m not sure these are items but it's what I need!)

What's your superpower in your business?

I’m a good listener and able to understand what my clients uniquely need even when they’re not able to clearly articulate it themselves. 

What legacy do you hope to leave through your business?

That the brands I work on are better able to understand their impact on the world around them and the role that they play in people’s lives. That they take into account the personal health and wellness of their consumers, the health of the planet and the health of their community.

Favorite songs to listen to when working

I don’t listen to music while I work, but I love listening to either guided runs or podcasts while I run which often help inspire new thinking for the work I’m doing 

What’s your favorite ’90s jam?

White Ladder - David Gray

Do you have a favorite local store or business that you wish more people knew about?   

In Tune, though I’m definitely biased as my husband runs it!  He started his music school 9 years ago teaching from our house. It’s come a long way since then!