Dynamic Duos: ‘He’s not just a business partner, he’s a trusted confidante’
In this week's Dynamic Duos, Because's co-founder and managing director ANZ, Meredith Cranmer, and co-owner and strategy director ANZ, Gareth Brock, share some fond memories.
In Dynamic Duos, Mumbrella each week asks two colleagues with a professional and personal affiliation to share with readers the importance of workplace relationships in an increasingly hybridised world of work.
Meredith Cranmer:
We were introduced by a headhunter, Jo Gobbo, as part of a retained search to find a business partner and person to help me grow Because. I had come straight from being onsite at a really big event and was a chaotic ball of energy. From the first moment I met Gareth (G) I was at ease. He asked me really great questions and when I asked him what he was looking for in his next role he answered, fun! It’s been 10 years of working together, and most recently he took an even bigger stake in the business. This investment is testament to the strength of our relationship, and the deep level of trust and belief we have in each other. We have similar ambition and drive, yet are very different in how we work and think. I have so much respect for G’s craft skills and ability to get the best from himself, teams and clients. He commands high standards of himself and others which is essential if you want to be the best.
I appreciate G’s gentle directness with feedback. There have been numerous times when G has given me feedback that hasn’t always been great (like when I am overwhelming the team with way too many ideas, that whilst good, don’t read the room when it comes to workloads and prioritisation), but necessary – and always delivered with kindness, for the better of me and the business.
G and I place great importance on relationships and service. I respect how many clients of his have become friends and how he fosters trust from those around him.
Most of all, I value G’s friendship. We are not just business partners. He is a trusted confidante, shoulder to cry on, tells the best stories and is always ready to say cheers – whatever the circumstances.
Gareth Brock:
Meeting Jo Gobbo, the dedicated recruiter, marked a significant turning point in my professional journey. After taking a hiatus from another agency where I was a partner within the STW group, Jo consistently kept in contact, demonstrating her commitment and genuine interest in my career. During this period, several opportunities presented themselves, but none felt quite right until Jo introduced me to the agency Because and its remarkable leader, Meredith.
At that time, I was open to finding my next challenge, and Meredith instantly reminded me of myself when I launched iCRE8, a BTL agency that achieved great success. Despite leading a small team, Meredith was accomplishing impressive goals and significant wins. Our initial meeting felt more like a conversation between peers than a formal interview. We immediately respected each other, forming the foundation of a strong, collaborative relationship.
Meredith had built an excellent business but recognised the value of the guidance I could provide to elevate the agency to the next level. She was experiencing similar challenges that I had faced while running an agency, which created an instant bond between us. I admired her determination and resilience in starting a new business in a market where she initially had no connections. Having been in her position before, I was eager to contribute, wholeheartedly believing in the agency’s vision and Meredith’s leadership.
Our relationship has evolved into one where we are unafraid to open up about anything, be it work-related or personal matters. This openness is always received in the spirit it is intended, fostering a supportive and honest environment. The team affectionately refers to us as ‘mum and dad,’ reflecting the depth and strength of our partnership. Like any successful marriage, our relationship embodies trust, honesty, vulnerability, respect, compromise, and appreciation.
A key aspect of our successful partnership is our respect for each other’s differences. Although we think differently, we are always aligned toward the same goals, with no room for ego in our dynamic. This mutual respect and understanding have allowed us to navigate challenges effectively and celebrate our successes together.
My relationship with Meredith has been incredibly rewarding. Meredith took a chance and believed in my potential, recognizing how it aligned with her vision. Together, we have built a strong, open, and supportive partnership that continues to drive the agency toward new heights. We have just celebrated 10 years of working together, and I am excited about the future, looking forward to achieving even greater milestones in the next decade.
Meredith on Gareth:
Most memorable moment with Gareth: Within three months of joining Because I fell pregnant – a lot sooner than I had expected. Naturally I was worried about the impact on the team and G. He pulled me into a room, sat me down and said ‘I know you’re pregnant, and I want you to know I’m here for you and the team’. His EQ is extremely high, he is tuned in to how others maybe feeling and it was exactly what I needed.
Best word to describe him: Inquiring. G has a natural curiosity and ability to learn new things, ways of working and thinking. His mind never stops. It’s what makes him brilliant at solving complex problems for our clients and making the complicated simple.
Most annoying habit or endearing behaviour he has: G is phenomenally kind and generous with his time. He will go out of his way to help others and that is one of the reasons why he is so great at developing and maintaining relationships. He sees people for who they are, and don’t we all want to feel seen? Annoying habit would be his impeccable grooming – I am a hot mess in comparison, and perhaps I am just a little bit jealous of this! I often look at him presenting to clients and the team and am totally enthralled. G is magnetic!
Gareth on Meredith:
Most memorable moment with Meredith: One of the most memorable and profound moments with Meredith happened just after the lockdowns ended and life was gradually returning to normal. I was completely burnt out from running agencies for over 20 years and desperately needed a break. So, I reached out to Meredith on a Sunday to tell her I needed a few months’ sabbatical. Initially, I sensed her concern – it felt a bit like announcing a separation in our partnership. But Meredith listened and understood that it was the best move for both me and the business. She was incredibly supportive, giving me the time to rest, recuperate, and rediscover myself. This experience highlighted how much we truly support each other, not just in words but through actions and compassion. I’ll always be grateful for her understanding and support during a time when many people don’t have the freedom or support to take such a break.
Best word to describe her: Creative. Meredith is incredibly well-read and always up-to-date with the latest trends and global happenings. I sometimes think she reads in her sleep! Her constant awareness and insight enable us to demonstrate thought leadership to our clients, consistently presenting new and innovative solutions they (or I) hadn’t considered.
Most annoying habit or endearing behaviour she has: One of Meredith’s strengths that can be a bit overwhelming, especially when I’m deep in thought, is her natural ability to fire off a million ideas in just 60 seconds. I’m more of a slow-and-steady thinker, so I often find myself asking, “But why?” as I try to process all her rapid-fire suggestions. However, amidst the whirlwind, there’s always a gem of an idea. While it’s not exactly annoying, Meredith is determined that we will one day set a world record for a client. This often pops up as one of her ideas, even when it might not be the best fit. Still, I’m on a mission to make her dream a reality, and when the right brief comes along, we’ll create that record-breaking moment.
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Lauren McNamara was the associate editor at Mumbrella. She joined in November 2022 as editorial assistant, after completing a Bachelor of Communications (Journalism) at UTS. She left Mumbrella in August 2025.
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