Kirsty Mclardy

Head of Research

Meet Kirsty

Kirsty is Head of Research for Livingston James Group. Principally supporting the Executive Search team, Kirsty leads all research activities including market mapping, talent mapping, international search and candidate attraction. Kirsty is also our trained in-house psychometric assessor.

Kirsty works closely with Consultants and Clients to understand exactly what is required and build a robust and targeted plan for how to source and attract high calibre individuals. Over ten years in the recruitment industry, she has worked across a range of sectors and specialisms, primarily at executive level.

Passionate about understanding people, what motivates them and how they can reach their potential most effectively, Kirsty studied MA Psychology at the University of Aberdeen. She has since completed further training in Occupational Ability and Personality testing and is a member of the British Psychological Society.

Outside of work, Kirsty enjoys escaping to the outdoors for hillwalking and trying her hand at some (very) amateur photography. She also travels as much as possible, immersing herself in new cultures and trying new cuisines wherever she goes!

Contact Kirsty

should you wish to discuss your research and psychometric assessment requirements, or should you be interested in a confidential discussion about your career.

Assignments & Editorial linked to Kirsty...

Livingston James Partners with Optos to Appoint Director of Quality

A global leader in retinal imaging technology, Optos designs and manufactures world‑leading devices that enable earlier and more comprehensive detection of retinal disease. This is a pivotal leadership role, providing strategic and operational ownership of quality across global operations, with full accountability for Quality Assurance, Quality Control, and the continued delivery of safe, compliant, and high‑quality products.

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Livingston James Retained by Sulmara to Appoint New CFO

Sulmara is an international, private equity-backed business operating in a growth-oriented and evolving market. The role requires an individual who can balance financial discipline with commercial awareness, and who is capable of contributing meaningfully to both the day-to-day operation and the long-term strategic direction of the business.

Read More »

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GROUP CEO

JaMIE LIVINGSTON

At Livingston James, an unwavering focus on the impact of our appointments is at the heart of everything we do.  We work in partnership with our clients and candidates to bring together leadership teams that transform organisations and careers for the better. 

Jamie Livingston

Together we achieve more.

Livingston James Group comprises two bespoke sub brands: Livingston James – our executive search and leadership advisory practice, and Rutherford Cross – our specialist finance recruitment practice. This wider group structure complements our robust search and assessment process, allowing clients to access our deep-rooted network and expertise.

Contact Our Executive Search Specialists

We’d be delighted to provide further information. Get in touch with our team to find out how we can help you.

Latest from the blog

The HR-CEO Paradox: Right Skills, Wrong Pathways

Despite possessing skills increasingly valued in modern leadership, such as emotional intelligence, change leadership, and organisational capability, HR leaders rarely progress to CEO roles. Livingston James Director, Ali Shaw recently shared insights from our latest research report in association with EY: The Future CEO Report, and how these findings can support succession planning for HR leaders.

Livingston James is Delighted to Partner with East Park to Appoint Chief Executive

East Park is a well‑established Scottish charity delivering specialist education and care services for children and young people with complex support needs. The organisation has a long history of providing safe, nurturing environments that enable young people to develop, grow, and prepare for adulthood.

The Chief Executive will lead the organisation overall, setting clear strategic direction and overseeing day‑to‑day delivery, while working closely with the Board to secure East Park’s long‑term sustainability and positive impact.

Livingston James Partners with Acrux Gold to Recruit Head of People & Culture

Acrux Gold is a vertically integrated precious metals business and the parent company of SGZ Cononish Limited, operator of Scotland’s only commercial gold and silver mine, with operations in the UK and South Africa.
Acrux Gold is appointing a Head of People & Culture to establish and lead the people function, supporting international growth and building the capability, culture and infrastructure required for long‑term operational success.

The HR-CEO Paradox: Right Skills, Wrong Pathways

Despite possessing skills increasingly valued in modern leadership, such as emotional intelligence, change leadership, and organisational capability, HR leaders rarely progress to CEO roles. Livingston James Director, Ali Shaw recently shared insights from our latest research report in association with EY: The Future CEO Report, and how these findings can support succession planning for HR leaders.

Livingston James is Delighted to Partner with East Park to Appoint Chief Executive

East Park is a well‑established Scottish charity delivering specialist education and care services for children and young people with complex support needs. The organisation has a long history of providing safe, nurturing environments that enable young people to develop, grow, and prepare for adulthood.

The Chief Executive will lead the organisation overall, setting clear strategic direction and overseeing day‑to‑day delivery, while working closely with the Board to secure East Park’s long‑term sustainability and positive impact.

Livingston James Partners with Acrux Gold to Recruit Head of People & Culture

Acrux Gold is a vertically integrated precious metals business and the parent company of SGZ Cononish Limited, operator of Scotland’s only commercial gold and silver mine, with operations in the UK and South Africa.
Acrux Gold is appointing a Head of People & Culture to establish and lead the people function, supporting international growth and building the capability, culture and infrastructure required for long‑term operational success.