About Shape Associates

Independent ERP transformation advisors

ERP programmes are some of the most complex and expensive investments organisations make.

They promise better data, improved efficiency and stronger operational control. Yet many programmes struggle to deliver the benefits organisations expected when they first began the journey.

Shape Associates was founded to help organisations close that gap.

We work as independent, client side ERP advisors, supporting organisations through major technology transformation programmes. Our role is to ensure that ERP investments deliver real operational and financial outcomes.

Your Trusted Partners

Why Choose Shape?

We work exclusively on the client side, ensuring every decision protects the organisation’s interests rather than vendor or implementation partner priorities.

Our team has supported ERP transformation across several of the UK’s largest ports and public sector, bringing practical knowledge of operational environments where systems, assets and people must work together.

Our goal is to leave organisations stronger than when we arrived. We build capability inside your team, ensuring knowledge stays within the organisation rather than creating long term consultancy dependency.

Our Experience

Since being founded in 2020, Shape Associates has supported ERP and transformation programmes across some of the UK’s most complex operational environments.

Our experience includes working with several of the largest ports in the United Kingdom, including:

  • Belfast Harbour

  • Ports of Jersey

  • Port of Dover

  • Port of Tyne

Across these programmes, we have helped organisations modernise financial systems, improve operational visibility and deliver major transformation initiatives.

Our work has contributed to measurable results, including:

ERP programmes delivered on time and under budget

£350,000 reduction in implementation contract value

£580,000 in operational savings

20,000 operational hours saved through improved processes

With over 30 years of combined experience, the Shape team brings practical knowledge from both the client side and delivery side of transformation programmes.

Our Framework

Over years of supporting complex ERP programmes, Shape has developed a structured approach to guide organisations through transformation.

The S.H.A.P.E framework provides a clear path from strategy through implementation and long-term optimisation.

When organisations come to Shape

Organisations usually engage Shape when their ERP systems are approaching critical decision points. Whether systems are nearing end of support, transformation programmes are beginning, or expected benefits are unclear, we provide independent guidance to help organisations move forward with confidence.

Shape Associates works exclusively on the client side, ensuring every recommendation is aligned with the organisation’s interests rather than software vendors or implementation partners.

With experience supporting some of the largest ports in the UK, we understand the operational complexity behind major ERP transformation programmes.

Independent Client Side ERP Expertise

 

Our Leadership Team

Our leadership team has backgrounds in both industry and complex operational environments.

Before founding Shape, Carl & Darren Parker began their careers in the Royal Navy, where disciplined planning, operational clarity and leadership under pressure were essential.

Those principles continue to shape how we approach transformation programmes today, bringing structure, accountability and clear decision making to complex ERP and technology initiatives.

Unlike many consultancies, Shape’s founders remain actively involved in the business and continue to work directly with clients across change management and transformation programmes.

Yash Bhinde

Director

Specialising in:
ERP Transformation
ERP Advisory 
EPM Across Public & Private Sectors

Carl Appleton

Co-Founder

Specialising in:
Continuous Improvement Specialist
Change Management Consultant
M365 adoption specialist

Justin Woodley

Interim CEO

Specialising in:
ERP Advisory 
Solution Architect
Effective Problem Solver

Become More Efficient With Shape Associates

Enhance efficiency, streamline operations, and maximise your ROI.