The People in the Room with You.

Our team brings decades of combined experience across strategy, communications, brand development, public relations, and the Canadian charitable and faith-based sector - so you never have to start from scratch.

  • Founder & Principal Advisor

    Ellen Graf-Martin started her marketing career in 2000, hosting global mission leaders for the launch of the internationally-acclaimed, Operation World. Since then, she’s enjoyed the privilege of launching countless brands, films, books, and working with several national and international non-profit organizations.

    Ellen’s deep commitment to using the marketing tools in her hands to come alongside organizations working for good, is clear in the work that she and the team does. With a variety of cross-cultural living experiences, and a west-coast upbringing, Ellen now survives winters and enjoys summers in Ontario with her husband and daughter, and their feisty Bengal cat.

  • Senior Communications Advisor

    With over a decade of experience in publicity and national campaign strategy for publishers, film studios, and non-profits, Paola brings deep media insight to Graf-Martin Public Relations. Rather than focusing solely on media placements, Paola works with leadership teams to build strategic PR frameworks that safeguard institutional reputation and ensure core narratives reach the audiences that care most. Her advisory approach combines high-level media relationships with a focus on equipping internal client teams to communicate with clarity, consistency, and impact. 

  • Senior Strategic Advisor

    A seasoned executive in strategic brand management, non-profit leadership, and organizational development, Tara plays a pivotal role in guiding mission-driven leaders through complex strategic crossroads. With an extensive background in media production, digital engagement, and executive operations, Tara bridges the gap between high-level vision and sustainable execution. She works alongside Ellen to facilitate advisory engagements, helping executive directors and boards clarify their strategy, build internal capacity, and navigate sector transitions with confidence.

  • Strategy & Research Associate

    Drawing on a strong foundation in consumer behavior, digital strategy, and brand management, Sydney works alongside senior strategists to translate high-level Playbooks into actionable frameworks for client teams. Passionate about helping organizations cut through "AI sameness," Sydney focuses on brand distinction, digital tool integration, and audience research, helping client marketing teams understand their data, leverage modern platforms, and build the internal confidence needed to own their long-term growth.

    Discover how direct access to decades of strategic wisdom and expertise can bring clarity, strength, and momentum to your team.

  • Operations & Client Experience Manager

    With over 20 years of administrative experience, Rebecca brings a strong background in project coordination, data management, and exceptional customer service. She has supported teams by maintaining detailed records, preparing presentations, and overseeing receivables to ensure seamless operations.

    She is passionate about event planning and thrives in structured, well-organized environments. Known for her attention to detail and collaborative spirit, Rebecca believes that teamwork is the foundation of a successful workplace and is committed to supporting team goals with efficiency and professionalism.

A little bit more about our Founder.
Ellen Graf-Martin

Ellen Graf-Martin is the Principal Consultant at Graf-Martin Strategic Advisory and a trusted strategic thinking partner to visionary organizational leaders across Canada. A 2023 Canadian Marketing Hall of Fame inductee and CCCA Award of Excellence winner, Ellen has spent over two decades walking alongside and advising organizations through pivotal, high-stakes transitions. 

Ellen founded Graf-Martin Communications in the thick of the 2008 global recession. Beating incredible entrepreneurial odds, she built an award-winning firm, named Business of the Year by the Greater Kitchener-Waterloo Chamber of Commerce, and one of the rare North American creative agencies certified as a women-owned enterprise (WBE Canada).  Beginning her career in international charity and humanitarian work, Ellen built her firm around a commitment to strengthen organizations and leaders committed to hope, generosity and justice so they can do more good.

Ellen leads the firm’s executive advisory practise, delivering strategic clarity and measurable growth to senior leadership teams. Her approach marries sharp analytical insight with a commitment to wisdom, integrity and sustainable long-term stewardship. 

Beyond her practice, Ellen actively contributes to the business community, having served as a business advisor for Business Development Canada, a communications consultant for Ontario Health, and a JUNO Awards judge. She is also the founder of The Table, a national network that equips and connects high-capacity women leaders, and the host of The Change Makers Podcast.  A sought-after keynote speaker, Ellen regularly addresses values-based audiences on brand reputation, strategic alignment, high-integrity leadership, and crisis communications. 

With a variety of cross-cultural living experiences, Ellen now spends as much time as possible on Vancouver Island, while surviving winters and enjoying summers in Ontario with her husband, daughter, and their feisty Bengal cat.