Welcoming our new Head of Executive Research

Welcoming Gemma Quaye as Head of Executive Research at Sowena Group

We’re thrilled to announce a fantastic addition to the Sowena Group team, Gemma Quaye has joined us as our new Head of Executive Research. This is a major step forward in our continued growth as a leading executive recruitment partner to private equity-backed and high-growth businesses across the North West.

Gemma brings a wealth of experience from her previous role at Drax (Rowan), where she built a strong reputation for her deep expertise in executive search and talent intelligence. With a background that spans strategic hiring for both investment firms and high-performing portfolio businesses, Gemma is uniquely positioned to help Sowena deepen its research capabilities and further elevate the quality of leadership hires we deliver to our clients.

Why This Role Matters — and Why Now

Executive research is the foundation of any world-class executive search function. At Sowena, we pride ourselves on unearthing exceptional leaders, uncovering passive talent, and delivering insight that gives our clients a real competitive edge. That level of detail and strategic thinking doesn’t happen by chance.

As Head of Executive Research, Gemma will lead and evolve this vital function, ensuring we continue to deliver market-leading intelligence, precise candidate mapping, and value-added insights throughout the search process. She’ll work closely with our consultants and clients to identify, attract, and assess leadership talent that aligns not only with the brief but with the culture, ambitions, and future direction of each organisation we partner with.

Supporting Our Mission as We Scale

Sowena has grown quickly by building long-term relationships with the most exciting private equity-backed and scale-up businesses in the region. But scaling a search business means strengthening every pillar of the delivery process, especially the front-end research.

Gemma’s arrival strengthens our capability at a crucial time. With a growing pipeline of senior-level appointments in sectors like tech, business services, healthcare, and manufacturing, we’re more focused than ever on bringing analytical depth and creative thinking to the way we identify leadership talent.

A Warm Welcome

We’re incredibly excited about what Gemma will bring to Sowena - not just in terms of expertise, but in mindset, values, and passion for helping companies grow through great people.

Please join us in giving her the warmest welcome.

Welcome to the team, Gemma! We’re delighted to have you with us.