Our story
After many years abroad, both partners have returned to Australia, bringing a fresh perspective on local opportunities. Combined with our global experience, we understand the challenges brands face in this market.
Founded by Michelle Anderson and Sacha Leyland, we have 40 years collective expertise across Brand Strategy, Business Development, Brand Creation, Creative Execution, Operations, Analytics & Client Relationship Management, Santala provides bespoke consultancy services designed to ignite brand heat for your brand.
Born in Australia, Michelle began as a fashion accessories buyer before moving into NPD, sharpening a commercial, margin-first lens from product brief to shelf. She then moved into advertising and marketing for Australia’s largest liquor retailer, building brand and retail programs at scale. Her next step was London, where she led marketing and branding across supermarkets, QSR, and financial services, blending shopper insight with brand strategy. Later, Michelle founded and ran ventures in the UK, France, and the USA, gaining operational, import/export, and business development experience. Now back in Melbourne, she brings full market entry and growth expertise to Santala Brands.
Originally from New Zealand, Sacha began her career in Advertising in Melbourne, but seeking bigger, more scalable challenges she decided to head to London. Some 18 years later, having worked at the best Agencies in the world, on some of the most famous brands in the world, it was time to come home. During her career she’s worked as a Managing Director, Operations Director, SVP Business Development working across NPD, Brand Creation, Brand Transformation, Brand Building & Development and Branded Entertainment across Fashion, Beauty, Lifestyle, Luxury, FMCG, Retailers & Services.