Case Study:

Cawarra – Transforming Company Culture through The Where and The Why Workshop

50% Improvement

Positive and Harmonious Team Culture

Aligned and United

Ambitious Strategic Direction

Clear and Strong Values

Empowerment, Trust, and Collaboration

Cawarra, a 40-year-old organic skincare product manufacturer based in Byron Bay, is committed to producing natural and effective skincare while caring for the community and the environment.

Led by General Manager Katrina Main, the family-owned company markets three brands – Sanctum, OrganicSpa, and Byron Bay Skincare – and also offers contract manufacturing services. To further enhance their operations and culture, Cawarra underwent The Where and The Why Workshop, resulting in significant improvements and transformative changes.

Cawarra, as a science-driven manufacturer, has a longstanding focus on crafting organic skincare products. With a commitment to caring for both people and the environment, the company emphasises sustainability throughout its manufacturing processes and packaging solutions.r

The Where and The Why Workshop

Strategic Direction

The leadership team at Cawarra recognised the need for strategic development and underwent The Where and The Why Workshop. This workshop addressed various aspects of the business, including the establishment of a Moonshot goal, Vision, Purpose, and Values.

Co-creation Creates Ownership

The leadership team actively participated in creative exercises that fostered a dynamic and interactive environment. This unique approach empowered each team member to contribute their individual perspective.

Through the workshop, team members shared their ideas about the company’s future. They were asked to envision “The Where” – what Cawarra would look like in three years’ time, exploring their individual visions for the company. Furthermore, the team was encouraged to propose ambitious and exciting Moonshot goals that could propel Cawarra’s growth and success.

The Power of Collaboration

The workshop encourages self-reflection and consideration of each team member’s strengths, to develop a greater appreciation for the diverse talents within the group. This served as a catalyst for improved teamwork and collaboration, fostering an environment of mutual support and respect. In the workshop, each team leader shared artefacts that they personally believed symbolised  “The Why” – Cawarra’s Purpose.

“The Where” and “The Why” activities were facilitated with great effectiveness, ensuring that every team member’s input was valued, discussed openly, and considered fairly. Through meaningful discussions and collaborative exchanges, a consensus was reached, and a simple plan was documented to solidify the shared Moonshot, Vision, Purpose and Values of Cawarra.

Immediate Activation

Building upon this unified direction, the team wasted no time in translating the identified goals into actionable projects. With a sense of immediate momentum and enthusiasm, these projects were swiftly formulated and activated, leading to tangible progress and advancements shortly after the workshop’s conclusion.

Cultural Transformation

The impact of The Where and The Why Workshop on Cawarra’s company culture has been remarkable. General Manager Katrina Main estimates that company culture has improved by 50% since the workshop took place. The generational leadership change occurring within the company was effectively managed and aligned through the workshop, fostering a sense of ownership among the management team regarding the company’s Vision and Purpose.

Staying True to The Where and The Why

The Where and The Why Workshop played a pivotal role in defining and clarifying Cawarra’s strategic direction. The company’s Purpose is now succinctly summarised as “Care for Skin. Care for People. Care for the Environment.”

Previously undefined, Cawarra’s Values have become clear and strong, allowing the entire team to contribute and provide input. To further solidify these Values, an artist was engaged to visually depict them (below), instilling a sense of pride within the team.

Results

The Where and The Why Workshop provided Cawarra with a valuable opportunity for growth and cultural transformation. By aligning the management team, fostering a sense of ownership, and clarifying the company’s Moonshot, Vision, Purpose and Values, Cawarra has experienced a significant positive shift in company culture. With a renewed commitment to care for skin, people, and the environment, Cawarra is poised to continue its journey as a leading organic skincare manufacturer.

Cawarra Values, developed in The Where and The Why Workshop

Value of Where and Why Workshop
Value of Where and Why Workshop

Thanks to Business Coach, Maria Collyer, for referring Cawarra to The Where and The Why Workshop.