Manchester-based independent SEO agency Search Theory has strengthened its team with three appointments just months after launching.
The agency, founded by former Candidsky CEO David Vernon and Sara Kavanagh in April 2026, said it had expanded following a series of new client wins during its first few months in business.
Search Theory has appointed Samantha Cobden as Head of Digital PR, Travis Robbins as SEO and Experiences Manager, and Henry Reeves as Junior Marketing Executive as part of its latest recruitment drive.
Cobden, who has more than nine years’ industry experience, will lead the agency’s Digital PR offering, working with clients to secure coverage across relevant websites and publications.
Her previous work has spanned sectors including construction, care homes, private education, interiors, fitness and outdoor lifestyle.
She said: “I am stoked to join the Search Theory team and to help build the Digital PR service.
“David and Sara have worked tirelessly to create an agency that isn’t afraid to be curious and go against the grain in a way that puts clients’ success first. I think that is an essential aspect for any agency and I can’t wait to see what we can build together.”
Robbins joins in a hybrid SEO and Experiences Manager role, combining technical SEO with UI and UX design to help clients improve organic search performance and create higher-converting digital customer journeys.
He said: “It’s time to take the world of search to the next level. I’m super excited to be joining David, Sara and the rest of the team at Search Theory, and I’m looking forward to helping them shake the industry up.”
Reeves joins as a Junior Marketing Executive and will work across a range of client accounts while completing his apprenticeship.
He said: “I am very excited to be joining Search Theory and continuing my apprenticeship journey. I’m looking forward to learning more about different areas of marketing and developing my skills in content SEO and blog writing, whilst gaining experience working in a really exciting team.”
Search Theory said it expects to continue growing its team over the coming months.
Co-founder Sara Kavanagh added: “The appointments of Sam, Travis and Henry mark a hugely exciting period for our agency as we continue to grow our team and expand our offering.
“Each new team member brings significant strengths with them. Having worked with and known Sam for years now, I can’t think of a better person to bring PR campaigns to life for our brands. And Travis’ ability to blend Tech SEO and UI/UX design is exactly what we want to take our clients to the next level.
“We’re equally delighted to bring Henry on board. Experience can be an absolute game-changer for young people trying to get a foothold in the industry today. We’re looking forward to supporting him as he develops his skills and begins his career in digital marketing.
“It’s been an incredible first few months for the agency, and these appointments are another important step in building a team that shares our passion for doing great work and delivering meaningful results for our clients.”
