HARLOW Consulting has announced two new hires as the agency experiences ‘rapid growth’.
The firm offers qualitative and quantitative research, evaluation, qualifications, and standards design. Harlow’s directors, Jennifer Brennan and Clare Vokes, have welcomed two new associate directors, James Legard and Carolyn Black.
James joins from Purcell Architecture, where he was a senior heritage consultant and north region heritage consultancy lead. Previously, he worked as an associate heritage consultant at Simpson and Brown in Edinburgh. In both roles he collaborated with Harlow on a series of heritage-related research projects for Historic England and Historic Environment Scotland.
James said, “I’ve worked with both Clare and Jennifer in the research sector over many years, and have always been impressed by their commitment, passion and conscientious approach to their work and clients. Harlow Consulting is doing remarkable work that will have lasting impacts in sectors such as housing, healthcare, and heritage. I’m thrilled to be joining such an exciting, innovative team.”
Carolyn Black joins from the public sector in Scotland and has worked as a social researcher in the fields of public health, education and skills, and children and families. Carolyn has spent the majority of her career with Ipsos, joining as a graduate trainee. She spent the last four of her twelve years there as an associate director before taking up a post in the evaluation and research team of Skills Development Scotland.
Harlow said Carolyn will take the lead on developing the firm’s growing portfolio of work in Scotland.
Carolyn said, “I saw Harlow Consulting as an exciting opportunity to be part of a fast growing, innovative team, as well as to work on projects where my skills in social research can have real impact. My experience in the public sector has given me real awareness of the social benefits that high-quality research can lead to, something that is really important to me. Crucially, Harlow really deliver on their values and work in a way other organisations don’t. It was also a big draw to work for a female-owned and operated agency.”
Director Jennifer Brennan added, “We are delighted that two such strong candidates have chosen to join our growing team. James is adept at interpreting complex information to produce clear, actionable recommendations. He’s also particularly skilled in the fields of construction and heritage, which are important and growing research areas for us.
“Carolyn is a great fit for us, in terms of both her experience and values. Her diverse and expert skill set in social research will greatly strengthen our ability to deliver for our Scottish clients. Her understanding of the needs of the public and third sectors will be especially valuable in forwarding our mission to undertake projects with positive social impacts.”
