In the world of marketing, change is the only constant. For Brad Papworth, Managing Director of Geelong-based Ivy Street, navigating that change once felt like steering a ship through a storm without a compass. But today, Brad can confidently step away from his business for five weeks to pursue his passion for snowboarding, without a single worry about operations back home.
What made this transformation possible? The answer lies in the Entrepreneurial Operating System® (EOS), a simple yet powerful framework that helped Ivy Street evolve from a business in flux to a well-oiled machine driven by clarity, accountability, and purpose.
The Challenge: A Business at a Crossroads
Like many businesses, Ivy Street grew organically, through talent, passion, and a strong reputation in the Geelong community. But as the marketing landscape shifted rapidly with the changes in the business environment and client expectations for integrated services, Ivy Street found itself at a critical juncture.
Brad, like many visionary founders, was wearing too many hats. He was involved in a lot of the decisions, most client conversations, and every fire that needed putting out. The business was growing, but it wasn’t scalable. The team was talented but lacked alignment. And Brad? He was exhausted.
“I realised I was the bottleneck,” Brad shared in a testimonial video. “Everything came through me. I couldn’t step away without things slowing down or falling apart.”
EOS: A Framework for Freedom
That’s when Brad discovered EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System). EOS isn’t just another business methodology. It’s a complete system designed to help leaders get what they want from their business by strengthening six key components: Vision, People, Data, Issues, Process, and Traction.
Brad was intrigued. Could EOS really help him build a business that didn’t rely on him for every decision? Could it create a culture of accountability and clarity?
He decided to find out.
EOS Implementation: Build the Foundation
With Murray’s guidance, Ivy Street began its EOS journey.
Ivy Street defined the company’s Vision – not just where it wanted to go, but how it would get there. This included identifying core values, setting a 10-year target, and creating a clear marketing strategy.
In the People component, the leadership team defined the accountabilities for everyone, starting with themselves. Using the EOS People Analyser™, Brad and his leadership team also evaluated whether the right people were in the right seats. This wasn’t always easy, tough decisions had to be made, but it was essential for building a team that aligned with Ivy Street’s values and goals.
The Data component brought objectivity to the business. Instead of relying on gut feelings, the team began tracking key metrics weekly. This created transparency and allowed for faster, smarter decisions.
When Issues arose, and they always do, the team used the Issues Solving Track™ to identify root causes and solve them permanently. No more band-aid fixes.
Documenting core Processes ensured consistency and scalability. From onboarding clients to delivering campaigns, everyone followed the same playbook.
Finally, the team embraced Traction through regular Level 10 Meetings™ and quarterly Rocks (90-day goals). This rhythm created focus, discipline, and accountability across the organisation.
The Result: A Geelong Business That Runs Without the Founder
The transformation didn’t happen overnight, but it was profound. With EOS in place, Ivy Street became a business that no longer revolved around Brad. It had a clear vision, a strong leadership team, and systems that empowered people to make decisions and drive results.
And then came the ultimate test: Brad booked a five-week snowboarding trip.
“I didn’t check in once,” he said. “I trusted the team. I trusted the system. And everything ran smoothly.”
That’s the power of EOS. It doesn’t just help you grow your business—it helps you build a life.
Why This Story Matters
Brad’s story is more than just a personal victory. It’s a blueprint for any business owner who feels trapped in their own success. If you’re constantly firefighting, struggling to scale, or unable to take a proper holiday, EOS might be the solution you’ve been searching for.
Here’s what makes EOS so effective:
- Simplicity: No jargon, no fluff, just practical tools that work.
- Holistic: EOS addresses every part of your business, not just one area.
- Proven: Thousands of companies around the world use EOS to achieve clarity, control, and growth.
- Empowering: EOS doesn’t make you dependent on the implementer. It gives you the tools to lead with confidence.
A Culture of Curiosity and Growth
Today, Ivy Street is thriving. The agency has evolved into a fully integrated creative, marketing, and digital powerhouse, serving clients across Geelong and beyond. Its values, Genuine, Community, and Curiosity, are more than words on a wall. They’re embedded in the culture, guiding every decision and interaction.
Brad is no longer the bottleneck. He’s the visionary leader, supported by a capable leadership team that includes a Strategy Director, Creative Director, Client Services Director, and more. Together, they’re building a business that’s not only profitable but purposeful.
Ready to Learn More?
If Brad’s story resonates with you, you’re not alone. Many business owners reach a point where growth becomes overwhelming, and freedom feels out of reach. EOS offers a way forward, a path to clarity, control, and the ability to enjoy the life you’ve worked so hard to build.
Curious about how EOS could work for your business? Connect with Certified EOS Implementer Murray Smith, right here in Geelong, who helped Brad and the Ivy Street team turn vision into reality.
Because at the end of the day, business should support your life, not consume it.
Contact Murray here
Learn more about EOS here
