Specialist HR communications agency Skout has announced a new leadership structure, with founder Rob Skinner assuming the newly created role of head of growth and Claire James promoted from deputy managing director to managing director.
James will now take responsibility for the day-to-day leadership of the now-employee-owned business, client service delivery and agency operations, while Skinner will focus on business development, marketing, strategic partnerships and identifying new opportunities for agency expansion.
Meanwhile, after 14 years, Claire Lamb will step away from operational responsibilities on 1 January 2027 but will remain actively involved in Skout as a board director, strategic advisor and ambassador.
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The leadership transitions form part of a long-term succession programme designed to strengthen the business for its next stage of development, while maintaining continuity for clients and employees as the agency continues to build on its reputation for delivering strategic communications and programmes for HR-focused brands across the UK and internationally.
New MD James said: “Skout has always been a people-first agency, whether that’s how we work with clients, our team or our wider partners. I’m incredibly proud to step into the managing director role and lead the agency into its next chapter.
“We’ve built a strong team, an outstanding client portfolio and a reputation for delivering strategic advice and measurable results. As Skout’s former client services director, my focus is on continuing that momentum, investing in our people and ensuring our clients continue to receive the high levels of support and service they expect from us.”
Newly minted head of growth Skinner added: “Claire has already played a critical role in the leadership of the agency and this promotion reflects both her contribution and her vision for the future of Skout. As we look to the next phase of growth, we wanted to ensure we had the right structure in place to support our ambitions.”
“Moving into a dedicated growth role allows me to focus on building new relationships, creating opportunities for the business and ensuring Skout remains at the forefront of the communications and HR landscape.”
Director Lamb said: “These transitions were some time in the making. A key driver behind Skout becoming an employee-owned business in 2023 was to place a greater focus on developing future leaders, creating career opportunities, and ensuring employees have a meaningful role in the success of the agency. Claire James’ appointment is testimony to this.”
With increasing demand for strategic communications support around talent attraction, retention, employee engagement and organisational change, Skout plans to further develop its specialist HR communications offer alongside its wider corporate, brand and reputation services.
