The Thesis
Strategy & Silks is a research and advisory practice at the intersection of technology, business, and creative excellence.
Founded by Mary Ariyo, the practice publishes original analysis on platform economics, AI-enabled business models and the businesses being reshaped by both and works directly with founders and executive teams who need clear, strategic thinking at the point of decision.
Mary Ariyo is a strategic operator specialising in high-complexity strategic and operational work. Drawing on experience in equity research sales at Sanford C. Bernstein, strategic operations across Apple's EMEA and broader international markets, and scale-ups including carwow and ClearScore, she helps founders build operational foundations, craft compelling investor narratives, and develop and validate market strategy.
01 / Research
Platform Governance & Economics
Deep analysis of digital market structures, incentive design, and the evolving regulatory landscape for platform-based business models.
Research Themes & Practice
02 / Research
Creator Monetisation & Ownership
Exploring the shift from attention-based metrics to sustainable ownership models in the creative economy and media platforms.
03 / Research
AI-Native Product Strategy
AI's greatest commercial opportunity lies in building products that people actually trust and want to use. We develop frameworks for founders commercialising AI - focused on sustainable business models, genuine consumer value, and competitive advantages that don't come at the expense of the people they serve.
How we work
Strategy & Silks operates as a high-signal advisory for founders and funds navigating platform and AI complexity. We offer two primary engagement models designed for velocity and depth.