Karen Smithies Research

Karen Smithies Research is a specialist talent research and intelligence company providing a research-driven approach to talent acquisition. The company offers an insight-based alternative to traditional headhunting and recruitment, delivering real-time market intelligence to help clients make better informed hiring decisions. Core services include candidate sourcing, talent mapping, and market research, enabling organisations to attract, engage and secure the best people for their business needs.

Karen Smithies Research works across a diverse range of industry sectors and job functions, serving clients from start-ups and SMEs through to FTSE250 and global corporates. The company has built particular expertise in supporting organisations entering new markets or seeking niche skill sets, with a proven track record of delivering multiple hires from single assignments and presenting CVs as early as week one into a search.

The company operates throughout the UK, serving major infrastructure organisations, financial services firms, and professional services companies. Karen Smithies Research has built its reputation over 25 years through a commitment to integrity, professionalism, and excellence, with 100 per cent client reutilisation and growth driven by recommendation and repeat business. The company is known for rapid turnaround times, confidential and discreet service delivery, and the ability to unearth hidden talent through unique target lists, ensuring clients' reputations are enhanced when engaging with the market.