One of the UK’s leading executive search firms, Warren Partners, is bucking the industry trend and gearing up for significant expansion across all sectors, including its recruitment to board level roles.

The growth strategy will be led by founder Joëlle Warren, who takes up the role of executive chairman.

She will be supported by an advisory board of senior business leaders, headed by Judith Nicol. Having guided the business through the last two years as chairman, and after nine years as a non executive director, Judith is looking forward to continuing her involvement with the company. Operations director Vicky Lawton takes over from Joëlle as managing director of the 27-strong consultancy.

“There has been considerable consolidation in the industry over the past couple of years, and we’ve emerged not only intact but also stronger from the recession and ready to expand the business,” says Joëlle.

“Significant growth is evident in all our practice areas, including financial services, retail, consumer and business to business. We’ve added two consultants to the team since January, and are looking for additional experienced search consultants who are attracted by the Warren Partners ethos of treating others as we want to be treated.

“I’m really looking forward to having a more market-facing role, focusing on extending our activity with FTSE 250 company boards and working with our new advisory board to develop a bold growth strategy. With a national presence and a strong reputation for integrity, there is huge scope for us to increase our market share.”

Vicky Lawton joined Warren Partners three years ago as operations director, having previously held the role of customer service director for United Utilities’ telecoms subsidiary Your Communications. She is responsible for delivery of the high levels of client and candidate service that differentiate the consultancy. Her promotion reflects the Warren Partners philosophy of developing talent and, where appropriate, bringing in expertise from outside the executive search industry.

Judith Nicol has specialised in senior executive recruitment for over 18 years and will be using her extensive network of contacts to set up the Warren Partners advisory board. She also provides executive coaching programmes to help individuals and senior teams develop their leadership capabilities.