Sophie Randles

Sophie Randles is Managing Director of Livingston James, leading a team of executive search and leadership advisory specialists supporting organisations across the UK. She is passionate about working with purpose-led people and businesses, Sophie helps organisations realise their growth ambitions by building exceptional leadership teams and creating meaningful long-term value.

She specialises in C-Suite, Chair and Non-Executive Director appointments, with particular expertise supporting private equity-backed, portfolio and founder-led businesses. Drawing on an extensive network across the investor, private equity and entrepreneurial communities, Sophie connects clients with outstanding leadership talent, strategic introductions and opportunities that accelerate growth.

Beyond executive search, Sophie provides leadership assessment, market intelligence, thought leadership and people advisory support, partnering with clients to navigate critical leadership decisions and strengthen organisational performance.

In January 2024, Sophie was appointed Group Commercial Director of Livingston James Group, with responsibility for driving the Group’s commercial strategy and marketing initiatives across Scotland. She is also instrumental in developing communities and networks that support the wider business ecosystem, including Livingston James’ Fractional C-Suite network, which connects high-growth organisations with experienced executive talent.

Sophie is the founder of No Diversity, No Deal, a movement dedicated to empowering the next generation of female founders, operators and investors within Scotland’s private equity and deals community. Through events, networking and collaboration, the initiative seeks to increase representation, create opportunities and foster meaningful connections across the ecosystem.

Prior to joining Livingston James Group in 2015, Sophie held a commercial role within an FTSE 250 business. She graduated from Robert Gordon University with a BA (Hons) in Management with Marketing and furthered her studies at the University of Michigan, where she achieved distinction-level qualifications in Communications, Event Management and Recovery Management. She also completed a year-long internship with Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida.

Originally from Ireland, Sophie has lived and studied around the world, attending 12 schools across multiple countries. She remains actively involved in the community through her roles with Outward Bound Scotland and Wooden Spoon, supporting initiatives that help young people and disadvantaged children realise their full potential.